Sertoli cell tumors of ovary: light microscopic and ultrastructural study with histogenetic considerations

Two cases of pure Sertoli cell tumors of the ovary are presented. The tumors were grey to brown and generally solid, but with several cystic areas. They showed a highly differentiated, but variable, histologic patterns with solid cords of neoplastic cells, as well as tubular formations. Ultrastructurally, the basal part of the cells rested on a nonfibrillary basement membrane layer while the free border showed occasional cilia. Laterally, the cells showed tight junctions and desmosomes. Abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and some cystically dilated smooth endoplasmic reticulum were evident. The theories regarding the histogenesis are discussed. Enough similarities, both by light and by electron microscopy, are presented between these tumors and the Sertoli cell to justify classifying these ovarian tumors as Sertoli cell in type. The development of cilia is considered to be a manifestation of focal metaplasia of the neoplastic Sertoli cell.