Pseudoneoplastic lesions of the testis and paratesticular structures

Abstract

Pseudotumors or tumor-like proliferations (nonneoplastic masses) and benign mimickers (non-neoplastic cellular proliferations) are rare in the testis and paratesticular structures. Clinically, these lesions (cysts, ectopic tissues, and vascular, inflammatory, or hyperplastic lesions) are of great interest for the reason that, because of the topography, they may be relevant as differential diagnoses. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the pseudoneoplasic entities arising in the testis and paratesticular structures; emphasis is placed on how the practicing pathologist may distinguish benign mimickers and pseudotumors from true neoplasia. These lesions can be classified as macroscopic or microscopic mimickers of neoplasia.

Meconium periorchitis: A case report and literature review

“…1 In utero bowel perforation can be caused by thickened meconium associated with cystic fibrosis, bowel atresia, volvulus or vascular compromise. Leakage of meconium into the peritoneum causes meconium peritonitis (MP).…”

Meconium periorchitis – An uncommon cause of perinatal scrotal swelling

“…The extratesticular mass hardens over subsequent weeks to months as the meconium calcifies. The result is the development of ‘calcific pearls’, which represent calcification of the remains of squamous cells or lanugo hairs present in meconium . This development of calcifications may delay diagnosis until the age of a few months, or even years …”

“…Meconium periorchitis may mimic a testicular or paratesticular tumor – such as teratoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, metastatic neuroblastoma or lymphoma . In particular, the paratesticular and spermatic cord enlargement may simulate a paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma …”

“…On examination, the paediatrician noted bilateral scrotal swelling. Hydroceles are present in almost 10% of all infant males at birth; however, in this case, the scrotal sac discolouration raised other possibilities.…”

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“…2). If the material is mobile, the cyst is always benign; if it is fixed, the differential diagnosis should include cystic neoplasm [2].…”