Gonadal Function and Reproductive System Anatomy in Postpubertal Prune-Belly Syndrome Patients

To gain insight into the causes of infertility in Prune Belly Syndrome (PBS) by evaluating reproductive system anatomy and gonadal function in a cohort of postpubertal PBS patients.

We contacted all PBS patients 14 years old or older treated and followed at our institution. Age at orchiopexy, type of orchiopexy (with or without ligation of gonadal vessels), testicular volumes and positions were evaluated. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (to assess prostate size, seminal vesicles, and vas) and hormonal profile were ordered. Sperm analysis and analysis of urine after masturbation were performed after informed consent.

Fifteen patients were included in this study. Mean age was 19.2 years. Mean age at orchiopexy was 18 months. Fourteen patients (93.3%) had normal and orthotopic testes. Mean testicular volume was 6.9 cc. Eight patients collected semen, 5 of them (62.5%) had spermatozoa in the specimen and motile sperm was found in 4 (50%). Mean hormone levels were LH: 5.3 mg/dL, FSH: 6.9 mg/dL, testosterone 531 mg/dL. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed hypoplastic prostates in 66.6% and unilateral seminal vesicle absence in 66.6%. No vasal abnormality was noted.

Patients with PBS may have normal sexual hormonal levels. Motile spermatozoa were found in half of the patients. Our study highlights a high prevalence of prostate and seminal vesicle abnormalities that may represent an important cause for their infertility.