[Leydig cell tumor of the testis. Report of 3 clinical cases]

Leydig cell tumours account for only 1-3% of all testicular neoplasms. They are commonly detected as palpable masses, but can present with precocious puberty, gynecomastia or infertility. Although they are usually benign, about 10% of the reported cases have evolved as a malignant neoplasm. There are no histologic features pathognomonic for malignancy and metastasis is the only certain criterion of a malignant. Leydig cell tumour. The follow-up must be prolonged. The treatment of this tumour is orchidofuniculectomy by inguinal approach, associated with retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy when regional nodes are involved. We reports our experience on three cases of Leydig cell tumour of the testis treated with orchidofuniculectomy. The patients have been submitted to a 9 months, 11 months and 10 years follow-up respectively, and at present they are without signs of disease.