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[Monstrous epithelium in the seminal vesicles and epididymis]

B Habanec

    Ceskoslovenska Patologie
    |May 1, 1984
    PubMed

    Insights

    Monstrous epithelial cells in seminal vesicles are common in adult men but absent in boys. These cells, found in prostate aspirates and epididymis, are linked to aging and hormonal changes, not cancer.

    Area of Science:

    • Uropathology
    • Andrology
    • Cytopathology

    Context:

    • Monstrous epithelial cells in seminal vesicles can mimic neoplastic cells in prostate gland fine needle aspirates.
    • These findings are often diagnostically challenging.

    Purpose:

    • To investigate the frequency and characteristics of monstrous epithelial cells in seminal vesicles and epididymis in autopsy samples.
    • To differentiate these cells from neoplastic lesions.

    Summary:

    • Autopsy study of 6 boys and 34 adult men revealed monstrous epithelial cells in 73.5% of adults, but none in boys.
    • Similar cells were found in the epididymis, particularly in efferent ductuli (76.4%).
    • These large cells with irregular hyperchromatic nuclei are attributed to aging and hormonal influences, analogous to the Arias-Stella phenomenon.

    Impact:

    • Provides crucial information for pathologists to correctly interpret prostate aspirates, distinguishing benign cellular changes from malignancy.
    • Highlights the prevalence of age-related epithelial changes in the male reproductive system.

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