Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis: review of the literature and assessment of prognostic parameters

[Paratesticular mesothelioma: A rare case report]

Paratesticular mesothelioma is a very rare tumour, accounting for 0.3 to 1.4% of all mesotheliomas. Mesothelioma arising from the spermatic cord is extremely rare with only a few cases reported in the literature. We report a case of spermatic cord mesothelioma in a 70-year-old man who presented with a right inguinal mass and pain.

Identification and Management of Testicular Mesothelioma Identified Intraoperatively: A Case Series

Testicular mesothelioma lacks the characteristic presentation of testicular malignancy and often has normal biomarkers at the time of diagnosis causing this malignancy to be overlooked and diagnosed intraoperatively during elective scrotal surgery. We present two cases of testicular mesothelioma that were diagnosed incidentally during hydrocelectomy. These cases emphasize the importance of considering testicular mesothelioma during hydrocele and scrotal mass workup and demonstrate the need for standardized guidelines for the management of testicular mesothelioma.

Testicular/paratesticular mesothelial tumours: Uncommon histopathologic entities in a very complex anatomical site

Mesothelial tumours of the testicular/paratesticular region are uncommon, poorly characterised and difficult-to-diagnose lesions. They encompass entirely benign proliferations (adenomatoid tumour) and malignant, very aggressive tumours (mesothelioma) whose morphological features can be overlapping, highly variable and confounding. Moreover, testicular/paratesticular mesothelial tumours comprise relatively new entities with indolent behaviour (well-differentiated papillary mesothelial tumour) as well as tumours which cannot be correctly included in any of the aforementioned categories and whose classification is still controversial. The molecular profile of such tumours represents an open issue. In fact, despite the recent discoveries about the genomic landscape of mesothelial proliferations at other sites (pleura, peritoneum), testicular/paratesticular mesothelial tumours, and namely mesotheliomas, are too rare to be extensively studied on large case series and they could arguably hide relevant differences in their molecular background when compared to the more common pleural/peritoneal counterparts.The aim of this review is to provide a guide for the pathological assessment of testicular/paratesticular mesothelial tumours. Herein, we describe the most recent updates on this topic according to the latest (year 2022) World Health Organisation Classification of Urinary and Male Genital Tumours (5th edition) and current literature. The diagnostic criteria, the main differentials and the role of ancillary techniques in the diagnosis of mesothelial testicular/paratesticular tumours are discussed.

Malignant Mesothelioma of Tunica Vaginalis Testis: Update for 2022

Malignant mesothelioma of the testicular tunics is rare. About one third of cases are metastatic and carry a poor prognosis. This paper reviews the epidemiology, clinicopathologic features, treatment, and outcome of this entity.

Multimodal Management of Testicular Mesothelioma - A Retrospective Analysis From a Tertiary Cancer Care Centre

The main modality of management of paratesticular mesothelioma remains orchiectomy while the use of adjuvant chemotherapy has not yet been explored. We aim to analyse the outcome of the multimodal management protocol in testicular mesothelioma We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients registered and treated for testicular mesothelioma between 2009 and 2019 in an oncology tertiary care hospital. Patients presenting with nodal, metastatic disease were treated with adjuvant, palliative chemotherapy respectively and their response to treatment was periodically monitored. Eight patients (3 early, 1 nodal, 4 metastatic) with median age of 58 years was included in the study. Patients who had limited (early, nodal) disease (n = 4) had overall survival ranging from 20 to 140 months while metastatic disease (n = 4) had poor outcomes with overall survival ranging from 2 to 13 months. Surgery remains to be an important modality of therapy that improves the local control and overall outcomes and the quality of life even in patients with metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. Adjuvant chemotherapy might play a role in effective management of locoregional disease. The performance status, the extent of disease at the time of presentation are the important prognostic factors in deciding the outcome of the disease management.

A population-based evaluation of tunica vaginalis mesothelioma: An analysis of the National Cancer Database

PURPOSE

Primary mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis (TVM) is a rare and poorly understood malignancy with insufficient population-level data to guide management decisions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of TVM cases recorded in the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2015 was performed. Cases were identified using International Classification of Diseases for Oncology histology codes. Associations between demographic, clinical and therapeutic factors were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival estimates for overall survival (OS) and Cox proportional hazard modeling. Propensity score matching for receipt of systemic chemotherapy was performed to assess the impact on OS.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-one men with a median age of 65 years (interquartile range [IQR] 51-78) were included. Median OS from diagnosis was 72.5 months (IQR 20.2-Not Reached [NR]) after a median follow up of 34.9 months. Multivariate analysis demonstrated an increased risk of death for patients in the fourth quartile of age (hazard ratio [HR] 5.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.70-18.17, P = 0.004), those with biphasic or fibrous histology (HR 2.59, 95% CI 1.15-6.42, P = 0.04) and positive surgical margins (HR 3.27, 95% CI 1.61-6.63, P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in OS associated with receiving chemotherapy (P = 0.5) even after propensity score matching (P = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Margin-negative surgical resection is paramount to improving OS. There are insufficient data to recommend for or against adjuvant systemic chemotherapy or RT, although the limited available data does not suggest apparent benefit in terms of OS.

A case of simultaneous diagnosis of tunica vaginalis testis and pleural mesothelioma

A 37-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with chest pain and fever. Computed tomography showed pleural effusion and irregularly marginated, elevated lesions inside diffuse pleural thickening. Detailed medical examination showed swelling of the left testicle. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography showed uptakes at the thickened pleura and left testis. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging showed a mass in the left testis with a heterogeneous and partially calcified tumour present interiorly. Thoracoscopy was performed under local anaesthesia, enabling the observation of masses at the pleura and biopsy of the mass, which was diagnosed as malignant pleural mesothelioma. The affected testicle was resected and diagnosed as tunica vaginalis testis mesothelioma. Thus, simultaneous tunica vaginalis testis and pleural mesothelioma were diagnosed. It is necessary to closely examine parts of the body other than the chest.

[Diagnosis and treatment of rare testicular tumors using the example of malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis and Sertoli cell tumors]

BACKGROUND

Rare tumors of the testis not originating from germinal epithelium are a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

OBJECTIVES

To present current approaches in rare tumors of the testis using the examples of Sertoli cell tumor (SCT) and malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginal testis (MMTVT).

METHODS

A literature search in PubMed and the abstract databases of ASCO and ESMO was performed. Articles and book chapters were selected based on relevance to everyday treatment.

RESULTS

The low incidence of testicular tumors not originating from the germinal epithelium makes a standardized approach difficult. Diagnosis and treatment depend on the underlying diagnosis. While most SCT are benign, malignant subtypes require extensive resection including metastatic surgery if complete resection is possible. In MMTVT, multimodality treatment concepts are followed, according to the malignant mesotheliomas of the pleura.

CONCLUSION

Systematic registration of rare testicular tumors and comprehensive molecular pathological analysis are urgently needed to improve the understanding of tumor biology and to develop new therapeutic strategies.

Malignant mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis: Two extremely rare case reports

INTRODUCTION

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) of tunica vaginalis is a very rare tumor and it has a poor prognosis. It is not easy to diagnose the disease preoperatively because there is a lack of comprehensive studies and information about the disease. We would like to present our two cases with severe scrotal edema and hydrocele, which were debrided perioperatively due to scrotal necrosis, followed by radical inguinal orchiectomy and subsequently diagnosed as MM of tunica vaginalis.

CASE 1

A 74-year-old male patient with bilateral scrotal swelling for 6 months. Right radical inguinal orchiectomy was performed. The pathology result of right radical inguinal orchiectomy material was compatible with malignant mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis.

CASE 2

A 90-year-old male patient with complaints of right scrotal swelling for 3 years. A right radical inguinal orchiectomy was performed. The pathology result of right radical inguinal orchiectomy material was compatible with malignant mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis.

CONCLUSION AND DISCUSSION

MM has a very poor prognosis therefore early treatment plan should be made. Surgery is the main treatment for malignant mesothelioma of the testis. Although chemotherapy and radiotherapy play an active role in the treatment of metastatic disease, surgery is the first-line therapy in the treatment of the tumor. Also; long-term hydrocele, recurrent epididymitis, scrotal edema can make it harder to detect the tumor diagnosis. MM should be considered in such patients. Necrosis and abscess appearance was not mentioned before in published case reports. In this respect, it should not be ignored the long-term hydrocele situation and the appearance of abscess-epididymitis that cannot be treated properly.

Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis: A case report

Primary mesotheliomas of the tunica vaginalis testis are very rare malignant tumors. They are generally associated with exposure to asbestos. They may manifest as hydrocele, testis tumor, inguinal hernia, or epididymitis. After differential diagnosis, treatment is primarily surgical. Adjuvant therapeutic methods for mesotheliomas of the tunica vaginalis testis, with their high mortality, are controversial. Here, we present a mesothelioma case derived from tunica vaginalis testis acting as long-term pyocele with no known asbestos exposure.

Clinicopathological characteristics and outcomes in men with mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis: analysis of published case-series data

Purpose

Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis (MTVT) is a rare tumor, and currently, there are no published treatment recommendations.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature review and synthesized clinical presentation, clinicopathological factors associated with metastatic disease, treatment options, and outcomes in men with MTVT.

Results

We included 170 publications providing data on 275 patients. Metastatic disease occurred in 84/275 (31%) men with malignant MTVT: Most common sites included retroperitoneal lymph nodes (LNs) (40/84, 48%), lungs (30/84, 36%), and inguinal LNs (23/84, 27%).

Invasion of the spermatic cord or scrotum was the only risk factor for local recurrence [odds ratio (OR) 3.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.36–7.57]. Metastatic disease was associated with age ≥ 42 years (OR 3.02, 95% CI 1.33–6.86), tumor size ≥ 49 mm (OR 6.17, 95% CI 1.84–20.74), presence of necrosis (OR 8.31, 95% CI 1.58–43.62), high mitotic index (OR 13.36, 95% CI 1.53–116.51) or angiolymphatic invasion (OR 3.75, 95% CI 1.02–13.80), and local recurrence (OR 4.35, 95% CI 2.00–9.44). Complete remission in the metastatic setting was observed in five patients, most of whom were treated with multimodal therapy. Median survival in patients with metastatic disease was 18 months (IQR 7–43).

Conclusion

Malignant MTVT is a rare but aggressive disease. Since local recurrence is a risk factor for metastatic progression, we recommend aggressive local treatment. Survival and response to any treatment in the metastatic setting are limited.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00432-021-03533-6.

Malignant mesothelioma of the spermatic cord mimicking a benign inguinoscrotal swelling: case report with review of literature

Background

Spermatic cord malignant mesotheliomas (SCM) are extremely rare tumours arising from the tunica vaginalis of the spermatic cord (only 18 cases reported—worldwide in the literature). Paratesticular malignant mesotheliomas (PMM) account for about 0.3–1.4% of all mesotheliomas, while those from the spermatic cord account for less than 10% of paratesticular tumours. Spermatic cord mesotheliomas may be overlooked commonly owing to its unique ability to mimic benign disorders associated with a thickened cord, leading to loss of timely management in many cases. Hence, this case report hence serves to provide pointers to the urologist/surgeon and alerts them towards timely diagnosis and early management of SCM’s besides adding to its limited literature.

Case presentation

We present a case of spermatic cord mesothelioma (SCM) in a 39-year-old male presenting to our clinic with persistentcomplaints of left inguinoscrotal swelling with a vague dull-aching, poorly localising pain sensation over the inguinoscrotal region associated with a persistent dragging sensation for more than a year. Initial evaluation suggested and inclined us towards the diagnosis a benign pathology (spermatocele); however, the persistence of symptoms (pain and swelling) despite prior therapeutic measures initiated elsewhere prompted us to consider an FNAC (which was benign) and surgical exploration which surprisingly revealed the diagnosis of SCM. Owing to the wide spread nature of the disease, the patient was started on palliative chemotherapy. He is currently is doing clinically well on a 1-year follow-up.

Conclusion

Spermatic cord malignant mesothelioma is an extremely rare tumour with an unique tendency to masquerade and mimic cord thickening also associated with several other benign groin/inguinoscrotal swellings. In all such cases, a high index of suspicion should be entertained by the urologist, even in the absence of classical risk factors for SCM like prior asbestos exposure while evaluating patients presenting with persistent expanding inguinoscrotal swellings associated with non-resolving symptoms.

Association between asbestos exposure and pericardial and tunica vaginalis testis malignant mesothelioma: a case-control study and epidemiological remarks

Objectives The purposes of this study are to describe the epidemiology of pericardial and tunica vaginalis testis mesothelioma and assess the role of asbestos exposure for these rare diseases. Methods Based on incident pericardial and tunica vaginalis testis mesothelioma cases collected from the Italian national mesothelioma registry (ReNaM) in the period 1993-2015, incidence rates, survival median period and prognostic factors have been evaluated. A case-control study has been performed to analyze the association with asbestos exposure (occupational and non-occupational) for these diseases. Results Between 1993 and 2015, 58 pericardial (20 women and 38 men) and 80 tunica vaginalis testis mesothelioma cases have been registered with a mean annual standardized (world standard population as reference) incidence rates of 0.049 (per million) in men and 0.023 in women for the pericardial site, and 0.095 for tunica vaginalis testis mesothelioma. Occupational exposure to asbestos was significantly associated with the risk of the diseases [odds ratio (OR) 3.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.85-7.31 and OR 3.42, 95% CI 1.93-6.04 in pericardial and tunica vaginalis testis mesothelioma, respectively]. The median survival was 2.5 months for pericardial and 33.0 months for tunica vaginalis testis mesotheliomas. Age was the main predictive factor for survival for both anatomical sites. Conclusions For the first time in an analytical study, asbestos exposure was associated with pericardial and tunica vaginalis testis mesothelioma risk, supporting the causal role of asbestos for all anatomical sites. The extreme rarity of the diseases, the poor survival and the prognostic role of age have been confirmed based on population and nationwide mesothelioma registry data.

Mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis testis: A case report of two subtypes

Level of Evidence: 4

Appendageal tumors and tumor-like lesions of the testis and paratestis: a 32-year experience at a single institution

The testicular hilum and paratestis contain several embryologically diverse anatomic structures, including the spermatic cord, tunica vaginalis, epididymis, rete testis, and several other embryonic remnants. Several benign and malignant lesions arise from these morphologically distinct structures, and owing to their proximity, it is challenging to classify and subsequently stage these tumors. Herein, we conducted a retrospective review of the paratesticular appendageal and rete testis tumors and tumor-like lesions diagnosed at our department from 1985 to 2016. Soft-tissue lesions/tumors were excluded. A total of 146 paratesticular appendageal and rete testis tumors and tumor-like lesions were identified. Most were benign (n = 107; 73%). Adenomatoid tumor (26%) was the most common benign tumor, followed by different types of cysts (19%), mesothelial hyperplasia (18%), serous cystadenoma (5.5%), and rete testis adenoma (4%). Malignant lesions comprised 23% of the cases, with mesothelioma the most common (15%), followed by adenocarcinoma of the rete testis (4%), serous cystadenocarcinoma (2%), and papillary and clear cell adenocarcinoma of the epididymis (2%). Finally, serous borderline tumors and melanotic neuroectodermal tumor (retinal anlage tumors) comprised the remaining 4% of cases. In conclusion, a wide range of benign and malignant lesions can arise from the paratesticular region. Awareness of these lesions and their histologic spectrum is crucial to avoid diagnostic pitfalls and to allow pathologists to establish a correct diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan.

Malignant Mesothelioma of the Tunica Vaginalis Testis-A Malignancy Associated With Asbestos Exposure and Trauma: A Case Report and Literature Review

In this article, we report an unusual case of a malignant mesothelioma of the testis, presenting as hydrocele. The patient has a known medical history of trauma and occupational exposure to asbestos. The clinical features of this injury are discussed together with its immunohistochemistry. Surgical intervention is discussed due to the nature of this pathology.

Imaging appearance of cystic and solid mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis

We present the case of a 32-year-old male who presented with a growing scrotal mass initially diagnosed as benign adenomatoid tumor on ultrasound 6 years prior. Repeat ultrasound showed an abnormal extra-testicular mass with nodular and cystic components and internal vascularity. A computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis confirmed a right extra-testicular scrotal mass with cystic and solid enhancing components. The patient underwent radical orchiectomy and postoperative pathology diagnosed mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis of the testis. Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis of the testis is an exceptionally rare disease. We discuss the risk factors, imaging features, and treatment strategies of the disease.

Radical prostatectomy versus brachytherapy for clinically localized prostate cancer on oncological and functional outcomes: a meta-analysis

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a form of malignancy that harms the health status of elderly men worldwide. It is unclear which of radical prostatectomy (RP) or brachytherapy (BT) is the more effective treatment for PCa. This study presents the first highly comprehensive and up-to-date comparative analysis of the overall outcomes of RP versus BT.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search for studies published on PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library on the outcomes of RP versus BT in clinically localized PCa. The cumulative analysis was performed using Review Manager Version 5.3 software, and the Chi-square test was employed to test the statistical heterogeneity. The summary odds ratio (OR) and standard mean difference (SMD) was estimated using random effects models at 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

In total, 2 randomized, 2 prospective, and 21 retrospective comparative studies were included. No significant differences in biochemical recurrence rate (BCR) (OR: 1.24; 95% CI: 0.91, 1.68) and prostate cancer-specific mortality (PCSM) (OR: 1.62; 95% CI: 0.86, 3.04) between RP and BT were noted. With erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence, BT was more protective than RP in both short-term post-operative reports (OR: 2.06; 95% CI: 1.15, 3.70 and OR: 4.62; 95% CI: 2.33, 9.16) and long-term patient outcome reports (SMD: -5.62; 95% CI: -13.81, 2.57 and SMD: -11.52; 95% CI: -18.32, -4.72).

Conclusions

BT and RP for PCa therapy pose comparable risks of PCSM and BCR, while BT is associated with a lower incidence of erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. This study tentatively confirms that BT is an alternative to RP for patients seeking a curative treatment with minimal risks of urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction.

Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis: a rare case and review of literature

Background

Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis is a rare tumour which comprises less than 1% of all mesotheliomas.

Case presentation

69-years old patient with painful hard mass and hydrocele in the right scrotum to whom a right hydrocelectomy was performed. Any history of scrotal trauma or exposure to asbestos was not present. Excisional biopsy revealed a multinodular tumour with focal areas of necrosis and infiltrative growth. According to morphological and immunohistochemical findings, diagnosis of malignant biphasic mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis was made. Two months after hydrocelectomy, right inguinal orchidectomy was performed. Post-surgical whole body CT scan revealed paraaortic and pararenal lymphadenopathy, likely to be metastatic. Adjuvant treatment with 6 cycles of cisplatin and pemetrexed was applied. After 3 cycles of chemotherapy, CT scan showed progression and the treatment was changed to gemcitabine 1 month after.

Conclusions

Although malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis is a rare malignancy, it poses a diagnostic challenge which can mimic common inguinal or scrotal diseases such as hydrocele. Despite aggressive surgical procedures or adjuvant therapies, the prognosis remains poor.

Asbestos exposure and malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis: a systematic review and the experience of the Apulia (southern Italy) mesothelioma register

BACKGROUND

Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis (MMTVT) is a rare disease with a poor prognosis. The diagnosis and management of these lesions are often difficult for pathologists, surgeons, oncologists and occupational physicians. A preoperative diagnosis of malignancy is rarely made, and there is no established effective therapy except orchidectomy.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted among the articles published in the English literature on primary MMTVT. Moreover four cases from the Apulia mesothelioma register are reported here.

RESULTS

Two hundred eighty-nine cases of MMTVT have been reported from 1943 to 2018. Overall asbestos exposure has been investigated only for 58% of all cases reported in this review, while in 41.8% this data are not available. Noteworthy is the fact that in many reports there is not an anamnestic reconstruction of any asbestos exposure. A history of direct occupational, environmental or familial asbestos exposure is found in 27.6% of the cases. The four cases from the Apulia mesothelioma register are all with ascertained occupational exposure to asbestos.

CONCLUSIONS

The true incidence of asbestos exposure in MMTVT is underestimated because of insufficient information reported in older literature. To establish a broad consensus on the causal relationship between asbestos and MMTVT in the scientific community its necessary to analyze the same variables in the epidemiological studies. In general it should be recommended that a positive history of exposure to asbestos or to asbestos-containing materials are at risk for the development of a MMTVT and should be monitored.

Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis testis of unknown malignant potential: Sonographic appearance

Paratesticular mesothelioma is a rare differential diagnosis in the presence of scrotal hydrocele. A 17-year-old boy presented with a 3-year history of progressive hydrocele. Sonography revealed a large left paratesticular mass within the hydrocele. Serum tumor markers were negative. Left hydrocelectomy was performed and pathological analysis of the epididymal mass revealed a well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma. We discuss the sonographic and pathological findings of this rare neoplasm.

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis testis in the right scrotum of a dog

A 12-year-old intact male Welsh Corgi was presented with enlargement of the right scrotum. Both testicles were surgically removed and histopathologically examined. On gross examination, white nodules were found in the epididymis and ductus deferens. Histopathologically, the nodules developed continuously from the tunica vaginalis testis of the right scrotum and consisted of spindle-shaped neoplastic cells that invaded the surrounding tissue. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells were diffusely positive for vimentin, cytokeratin and Wilms tumor-1 (WT-1). Based on these findings, the tumor was diagnosed as sarcomatoid mesothelioma. The dog presented with respiratory distress 122 days after surgery and clinical examination found multiple metastatic lesions in the lung, abdominal lymph nodes and peritoneum. The dog died 144 days after surgery due to disease progression.

Malignant Mesothelioma of Tunica Vaginalis Testis: Macroscopic and Microscopic Features of a Very Rare Malignancy

Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis (MMTVT) is an extremely rare tumour, usually mimicking benign pathologies of the scrotum.

Our case is an 84-year-old male patient who appealed with a painless, left-sided scrotal swelling longer than 2 months. Although the level of tumour markers was normal, ultrasonographic examination results forced us to perform an inguinal scrotal exploration. Multiple small papillary tumours, both on tunica vaginalis and tunica albuginea, were detected intraoperatively. Due to these findings, radical orchiectomy was performed.

A pathological evaluation showed malignant mesothelioma (MM) of the tunica vaginalis testis. Exposure to asbestos is a well-known risk factor. Furthermore, a history of trauma, herniorrhaphy and chronic hydroceles is blamed as a possible risk factor. Scrotal ultrasonography is the mainstay of primary diagnosis and, therefore, it should not be overlooked when dealing with benign scrotal cysts or hydroceles, which are very common pathologies at these decades, too.

Radical inguinal orchiectomy is the primary treatment choice for localised MMTVT disease, whereas in signs of lymph node metastasis, inguinal lymph node dissection is required. Radical resection should be completed with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for an advanced or recurrent disease. This case, which is very rarely reported in the literature and detected during inguinal exploration, along with the pathological works that supported the diagnosis, was presented with this report.

Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis: A case report and literature review

Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis is an extremely rare tumor without specific clinical manifestations, mainly including hydrocele formation and a painless mass. We herein present the case of a patient with hydrocele of the left testis, without any other complaints. Tunica vaginalis subinvolution was performed, and postoperative pathological examination revealed a malignant mesothelioma arising from the left tunica vaginalis testis. Whole-body positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) and subsequent abdominal and pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed no evidence of local lymphadenopathy. Radical left orchiectomy was performed after the pathological diagnosis. The pathological examination after the second surgery demonstrated that the tumor had invaded the adjacent periorchium and spermatic cord, but there was no evidence of local lymph node metastasis. Pemetrexed and cisplatin were administered at a dose of 900 and 130 mg, respectively, on the first day of a 28-day cycle. After 6 months of therapy, the disease had not progressed on abdominal and pelvic PET-CT and MRI. The patient was still followed up in our urology outpatient clinic at the time of the present report. Although testicular hydrocele is a common and easily diagnosed condition, detailed medical history and physical examination are required. Thus, when clinicians encounter patients with testicular hydrocele, a variety of possible causes must be considered, including testicular or paratesticular tumors, even rare tumors such as mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis.

Bilateral Malignant Mesothelioma of Tunica Vaginalis A Case Report on Rare Presentation

Malignant mesothelioma involving the para-testicular tunica is extremely rare and an aggressive tumor. Bilateral malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis is not reported previously in the literature. Rarity of the disease, absence of any specific clinical and radiological findings makes the preoperative diagnosis difficult. Aggressive surgical approach is the key to successful management with high inguinal orchiectomy and scrotectomy appears to be optimal treatment in patients with localized disease.

Malignant Mesothelioma of the Tunica Vaginalis Testis: Outcomes Following Surgical Management Beyond Radical Orchiectomy

OBJECTIVE

To describe clinical management and outcomes of a cohort of patients with malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis (MMTVT) who received treatments beyond radical orchiectomy.

METHODS

Patients with confirmed MMTVT at a single tertiary care institution were identified. Treatments, pathologic outcomes, and survival were recorded. Prognostic variables associated with survival were analyzed with a Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan-Meier curves.

RESULTS

Overall, 15 patients were included. Initial presentation was a scrotal mass in 7 of 15 (47%) and hydrocele in 5 of 15 (33%) patients. Clinical staging revealed enlarged nodes in 5 of 15 (33%) patients. Radical orchiectomy was the initial treatment in 5 of 15 (33%) patients. Positive surgical margins were found in 6 of 14 (43%) radical orchiectomies and were associated with worse survival (P = .007). The most frequent histologic subtype was epithelioid, associated with better survival (P = .048). Additional surgeries were performed on 12 of 15 (80%) patients. Pathologic examination revealed MMTVT in 6 of 12 (50%) hemiscrotectomies, 7 of 8 (88%) retroperitoneal lymph node dissections, 1 of 7 (14%) pelvic lymph node dissections, and 10 of 10 (100%) groin dissections. Five patients received adjuvant chemotherapy. Two also received adjuvant radiation therapy. Three patients with lymph node involvement remain no evidence of disease over 6 years after diagnosis. After a median follow-up of 3.5 years (interquartile range: 1.2-7.2), 5 patients have died, all of MMTVT; the median overall survival has not been reached. Common sites of relapse were lungs (5 of 7) and groin (3 of 7).

CONCLUSION

The pattern of metastatic spread of MMTVT is predominantly lymphatic. Nodes in the retroperitoneum and the groin are commonly involved. Prognosis is poor, but there may be a role for aggressive surgical resection including hemiscrotectomy, and inguinal and retroperitoneal lymph nodes.

Epidemiology of mesothelioma of the pericardium and tunica vaginalis testis

PURPOSE

Malignant mesothelioma most commonly arises in the pleura and peritoneum but also occurs rarely at other anatomical sites with mesothelial tissue, namely, the pericardium and tunica vaginalis testis (TVT). This review provides a better understanding of the epidemiology of mesothelioma of these extrapleural sites.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of the epidemiologic and clinical literature on pericardial mesothelioma and mesothelioma of the TVT. We also analyzed U.S. Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry data to describe incidence patterns of these malignancies.

RESULTS

An etiologic role of asbestos exposure has been hypothesized for pericardial and TVT mesotheliomas, but no analytical case-control epidemiologic studies exist to test this relationship. A substantial proportion of cases with these malignancies report no known asbestos exposure. In large occupational cohorts with heavy asbestos exposures, no cases of pericardial or TVT mesothelioma have been reported. Trends in the incidence of these malignancies do not match those of pleural mesothelioma, which correspond to historical trends of commercial asbestos use. A male preponderance of pericardial mesothelioma is not evident.

CONCLUSIONS

In the absence of analytic epidemiologic studies, the etiologic role of environmental risk factors for mesothelioma of the pericardium and TVT remains elusive.

MALIGNANT MESOTHELIOMA OF THE TUNICA VAGINALIS TESTIS: A CASE REPORT

We report here a case of malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis. A 93-year-old man with no history of asbestos exposure complained of increase of right scrotum size with pain. Ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a right hydrocele testis. A cytologic examination of the hydrocele fluid demonstrated mesothelial cells but show less atypicality and lack of obvious malignant features (class IIIa). We performed right hydrocelectomy for hydrocele testis. The pathological diagnosis was epithelial type of malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis, therefore we performed radical orchidectomy with wide excision of hemi-scrotal wall. There is no evidence of recurrence after 6 months of follow up. Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis is rare, and accurate preoperative diagnosis is difficult. When a rapid increasing hemorrhagic hydrocele testis or nodular masses of the tunica vaginalis was observed, malignant mesothelioma should be considered. Malignant mesothelioma is highly fatal disease. Even two stage operation, radical orchidectomy should be performed.

Hydrocele with a surprise: Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis - Case report and review of literature

Hydrocele is a very common condition that is simple to evaluate and treat. Management of hydrocele is usually delegated to the junior members of the surgical team. Sometimes this simple condition can spring huge surprises. A 20-year-old man presented with acute onset large, painless fluctuant left hemi-scrotal swelling. Scrotal ultrasonography showed thickened tunica vaginalis. A diagnosis of left hydrocele was made and repair by excision of sac was planned. During the procedure, the sac was found studded with red nodular growths; histopathology reported malignant mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis. Metastatic evaluation showed extensive retroperitoneal lymph nodal involvement. Despite receiving adjuvant chemotherapy with radiotherapy patient died due to extensive metastasis within 16 months. This case is presented for rarity of diagnosis, young age of presentation, absence of etiological factor and rapidly progressive clinical course.

Mesothelioma of the Tunica Vaginalis Testis: Report of 2 Cases with Asbestos Occupational Exposure

We report here 2 cases of malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis. A 67-year-old man with a left testicular mass was referred for left inguinal orchidectomy. Histologic examination showed a malignant mesothelioma of epithelial type. There is no evidence of recurrence at 2-year follow-up. The patient had been exposed to asbestos 12 years previously for a 30-year period. An 80-year-old man presented a 5-year history of scrotal swelling. Clinical examination revealed a hydrocele. The patient underwent resection of the tunica vaginalis through scrotal incision. Microscopic examination showed a malignant mesothelioma of biphasic type. There is no evidence of recurrence at 2-year follow-up. The patient had been exposed to asbestos 52 years previously for a 5-year period.

The legacy of the F344 rat as a cancer bioassay model (a retrospective summary of three common F344 rat neoplasms)

The Fischer 344 (F344) rat was used by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) for over 5 decades for toxicity and carcinogenicity studies. However, in 2006, the NTP decided to switch to a different rat stock due largely to high background control incidences of Leydig cell tumors (LCTs) and mononuclear cell leukemia (MNCL), also known as large granular lymphocytic (LGL) leukemia. In the current review, we aim (1) to provide a summary of NTP bioassays with treatment-associated effects involving MNCL and LCTs in addition to male F344-specific tunica vaginalis mesothelioma (TVM); (2) to describe important pathobiological differences between these F344 rat tumor responses and similar target tissue-tumor response in humans; and (3) to present the NTP reasons for switching away from the F344 rat. We show that due to the highly variable background incidence of F344 MNCL, more reliance on historical control data than is usual for most tumor responses is warranted to evaluate potential effect of any chemical treatment in this rat strain. The high spontaneous incidence of LCTs in the testes of male F344 rats has made this tumor endpoint of little practical use in identifying potential testicular carcinogenic responses. TVM responses in F344 rats have a biological plausible relationship to LCTs unlike TVM in humans. Given their high spontaneous background incidence and species-specific biology, we contend that MNCL and LCT, along with TVM responses, in F344 rat carcinogenicity studies are inappropriate tumor types for human health risk assessment and lack relevance in predicting human carcinogenicity.

Primary malignant mesothelioma of the spermatic cord

Primary spermatic cord malignant mesothelioma is an extremely rare tumour with only 12 cases reported so far. It is an aggressive tumour with a high recurrence rate. A 45-year-old man presented with a slow growing right inguinal swelling for the past 1 year. Physical examination revealed a well-circumscribed, hard, non-reducible swelling palpable along the medial extent of the inguinal canal with no cough impulse. Fine-needle aspiration cytology suggested metastatic carcinoma. Contrast-enhanced CT of the thorax and abdomen did not reveal any primary. Right high inguinal orchidectomy was performed at another institution. Postoperative histopathological examination (HPE) and immunohistochemistry suggested biphasic malignant mesothelioma with resected margin positive. The patient was referred to us for revision surgery and adjuvant therapy. Postoperative course was uneventful. Currently, he is undergoing radiotherapy.Surgery is the first-line treatment. Patients should receive adjuvant radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy and long-term follow-up surveillance.

Malignant mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis: an extremely rare case presenting without risk factors

Testicular tumours have many different manifestations, including hydrocele formation. Herein, we present an extremely rare case of testicular mesothelioma presenting with left hydrocele, but without risk factors. Left radical inguinal orchidectomy was performed, and pathological examination revealed a malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis of the testis. No infiltration of the spermatic cord was evident, and upon advanced radiological evaluation, no sign of metastasis was detected. Follow-up was still ongoing in our urology outpatient clinic at the time of this report. Although hydrocele is a simple and common condition that is easy to diagnose, a detailed investigation should be performed. Thus, when encountering a patient with hydrocele, the clinician should evaluate the possibility of the presence of an underlying testicular/paratesticular tumour, including a rare one such as mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis.

Preoperative cytological diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis

Malignant mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis testis is a rare aggressive neoplasm with ∼200 cases reported so far. A correct preoperative diagnosis of this rare tumor is difficult. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a rapid and inexpensive diagnostic tool that may prove helpful in such cases. Very few cases have been diagnosed on cytology so far, and the descriptions of the cytological features have rarely been described in the literature. In this report we present the cytological features of malignant mesothelioma of tunica vaginalis testis which was diagnosed by FNAC and subsequently confirmed by histopatholoy and immunohistochemical (IHC) studies.

Malignant Mesothelioma of the Epididymis: A Case Report

Malignant mesothelioma of the epididymis is a very rare tumor. We report a case of a 33-year old male with a left hydrocele that presented for evaluation of infertility. Scrotal ultrasound revealed a left extratesticular mass. Final pathology revealed malignant mesothelioma involving the epididymis, with well differentiated epithelioid morphology. Metastatic workup was negative.