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Localized amyloidosis of seminal vesicles: report of three cases in surgically obtained material
J D Seidman1, B M Shmookler, B Connolly
1Department of Pathology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C.
Abstract:
Localized amyloidosis of the seminal vesicles (ASV) is reported as an incidental finding in surgical specimens from three elderly men. In two cases, the amyloid deposits were bilateral, subepithelial, and clinically inapparent, features similar to other cases in the literature. In one case, the diagnosis was made on a transrectal prostatic needle biopsy that included a small portion of seminal vesicle; to our knowledge, this has not been previously reported. Electron microscopy in one case demonstrated nonbranching fibrils characteristic of amyloid, and pretreatment of tissue sections using the permanganate method in two cases showed almost complete ablation of congophilia. Evidence suggests that ASV is a permanganate-sensitive, non-AA (amyloid, protein A) type of amyloid that may be different from all other types of amyloid previously characterized.
Insights
Localized amyloidosis of the seminal vesicles (ASV) is a rare finding in elderly men. This study describes ASV as a permanganate-sensitive, non-AA type of amyloid, potentially distinct from other known forms.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Pathology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Amyloidosis involves abnormal protein deposits in organs.
- Seminal vesicle amyloidosis (ASV) is an uncommon incidental finding.
- Characterizing ASV is crucial for understanding its nature.
Observation:
- Three elderly men presented with localized amyloidosis of the seminal vesicles.
- Amyloid deposits were bilateral, subepithelial, and clinically silent in two cases.
- Diagnosis was achieved via transrectal prostatic needle biopsy in one novel case.
Findings:
- Electron microscopy revealed nonbranching amyloid fibrils.
- Permanganate treatment significantly reduced congophilia, indicating sensitivity.
- ASV appears to be a permanganate-sensitive, non-AA type of amyloid.
Implications:
- ASV may represent a unique amyloid subtype.
- Further research is needed to differentiate ASV from other amyloidosis types.
- Understanding ASV's characteristics can aid in diagnosis and classification.