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Testicular regression syndrome revisited: Insights from a 15-year retrospective study and evolving perspectives on
Celine Sarah Thomas1, Lianne Dmello1, Tarun John K Jacob1
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, 632004, India.
Introduction:
Testicular Regression Syndrome (TRS) represents a form of cryptorchidism characterised by the absence of testicular tissue with persistence of cord structures. While excision of remnants is routinely advocated due to potential malignant risk from seminiferous tubules (SNTs) or germ cells (GCs), the actual risk remains debated, and no universal consensus exists.
Materials And Methods:
We conducted a retrospective review of 262 children with clinically impalpable testes who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy and/or inguinal exploration at a single tertiary centre between 2008 and 2022. Testicular remnants excised were subjected to detailed histopathological examination for seminiferous tubules (SNTs), germ cells (GCs), and features of regression.
Results:
The median age at surgery was three years, and 83 % of remnants were left-sided. Intra-abdominal remnants were identified in 5 % of patients. Histology demonstrated vas deferens in 86 % and epididymal tissue in 66 % of specimens. SNTs were identified in 10.3 % of cases, while viable GCs were present in only 1.1 %. Calcifications and hemosiderin deposits were seen in 29 %. Intra-abdominal remnants showed significantly higher incidence of SNTs/GCs (62 %) compared to inguinal (10 %) or scrotal (4 %) sites (p < 0.0001).
Conclusion:
TRS remnants rarely harbour viable GCs, and no invasive malignancy has been reported. Excision is recommended for intra-abdominal remnants, whereas selective management of inguino-scrotal remnants may be appropriate. Larger prospective studies are needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for TRS management.
Insights
Testicular Regression Syndrome (TRS) remnants rarely contain viable germ cells (GCs), with no reported malignancies. Excision is advised for intra-abdominal remnants, but selective management may suit inguino-scrotal cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Urology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Testicular Regression Syndrome (TRS) is a form of cryptorchidism where testicular tissue is absent, but cord structures persist.
- Routine excision of TRS remnants is common due to concerns about malignant potential from seminiferous tubules (SNTs) or germ cells (GCs), though this risk is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the histopathological findings in testicular remnants from children with clinically impalpable testes.
- To determine the incidence of SNTs and GCs in TRS remnants and assess risk factors for malignancy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 262 children with impalpable testes undergoing diagnostic laparoscopy or inguinal exploration (2008-2022).
- Detailed histopathological examination of excised testicular remnants for SNTs, GCs, and regression features.
Main Results:
- SNTs were found in 10.3% of remnants, and viable GCs in only 1.1%.
- Intra-abdominal remnants had a significantly higher incidence of SNTs/GCs (62%) compared to inguinal (10%) or scrotal (4%) remnants (p < 0.0001).
- No invasive malignancy was reported in any remnant.
Conclusions:
- TRS remnants seldom contain viable GCs, and invasive malignancy is not a significant risk.
- Excision of intra-abdominal remnants is recommended, while selective management of inguino-scrotal remnants may be considered.
- Further prospective studies are needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for TRS management.
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