Effect of ketotifen fumarate on experimental autoimmune orchitis and torsion of the spermatic cord / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

The aim of this work was to study effects of ketotifen fumarate (KF) on prevention of tissue damage in testes of rats with experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) and on the contralateral testis in a model of prolonged testicular cord torsion (TCT). Rats with EAO or TCT were injected intraperitoneally once daily with KF or saline solution (vehicle group). Incidence and severity of testicular damage were evaluated by histopathology using an EAO score or a Johnsen score. Mast cells (MC) were identified by histochemistry and quantified. In EAO model, KF significantly reduced severity of histopathological testicular damage compared to rats in the vehicle group. KF also reduced the number of testicular MC compared to vehicle group. Similarly, in TCT model, multifocal damage of the contralateral testis was observed 30 days after testicular torsion characterized by sloughing of the germinal epithelium, seminiferous tubule atrophy, and interstitial edema. Focal signs of inflammation and fibrosis of seminiferous tubular walls were also observed. In contrast, sections of contralateral testis of rats injected with KF and killed 30 days after surgery showed normal histological features. A significant decrease in the number of MC was observed in rats treated with KF compared to untreated animals. In conclusion, we demonstrated that treatment with KF reduced testicular inflammatory process and MC infiltrates in both EAO and TCT models. The results suggest a promising treatment for infertile male patients with testicular pathologies associated with inflammation and germ cell loss.

Antioxidant action of alpha lipoic acid on the testis and epididymis of diabetic rats: morphological, sperm and immunohistochemical evaluation

ABSTRACT Introduction Chronic hyperglycemia is caused by diabetes mellitus-committed genital morphophysiology, and oxidative stress is one of the main factors involved in this process. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) can prevent metabolic and morphological changes in diabetic individuals. Objectives In present study, we evaluated the effects of regular ALA consumption on the spermatogenesis and histoarchitecture in the male genital system of diabetic rats. Materials and Methods Thirty-two Wistar rats were divided into groups: Control (CG); Diabetic Control (DCG), receiving commercial diet: ALA Group (ALAG) and Diabetic ALA Group (DALAG), fed diets with added ALA (300 mg/Kg bw). The diabetic groups received a single injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). After sixty days of the diet, the animals were euthanized, and semen, testis and epididymis samples were collected. A histomorphometric analysis was performed to determine the epithelial height, tubular and luminal diameter, tubular and luminal area of seminiferous tubules and each epididymal region. Sertoli cells were evidenced using the antivimenti antibody and were quantified. The results were statistically analyzed by the ANOVA test. Results At the end of the experiment, the DALAG glycemia was significantly lower than DCG. The histomorphometric parameters of the seminiferous and epididymal tubules did not show improvement in the DALAG. However, there was an improvement in the DALAG in terms of the concentration, motility and percentage of spermatic pathologies, as well as in the number of Sertoli cells (p<0.001). Conclusions The results demonstrated that supplementation with the ALA antioxidant retards testicular lesions and preserve the process of spermatogenesis in diabetes.

Clinical application of cross microsurgical vasovasostomy in scrotum for atypical obstructive azoospermia / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Seminal duct obstruction may result in obstructive azoospermia (OA) and severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) (<0.5 million/mL) (Nordhoff et al., 2015). Cases of partial OA and OAT can be treated effectively by microsurgical anastomosis (Goldstein and Kim, 2013) to obtain successful surgical reversal. However, microsurgical vasovasostomy (VV) (Dickey et al., 2015) and vasoepididymostomy (VE) (Peng et al., 2017) are not suitable for patients with atypical OA and poor epididymis conditions or unpredictable obstruction of the distal vas deferens. For those patients, cross anastomosis may be applied instead of routine VE or VV. A single-center, retrospective, comparison study was conducted, which assessed the usefulness of the cross VV (CVV) in the scrotum for indication and efficacy. A total of 77 cases with OA or OAT were included, and 20 cases implemented cross anastomosis, including unilateral CVV (UCVV) in 4 cases, unilateral VE plus CVV (UVE+CVV) in 11 cases, and unilateral VV-based CVV (UVV+CVV) in 5 cases. The other 57 cases received no cross-matching anastomosis. The patency and natural pregnancy rates in one year were 75.0% and 50.0%, respectively, in the UCVV group; 54.5% and 27.3%, respectively, in the UVE+CVV group; and 60.0% and 40.0%, respectively, in the UVV+CVV group. The CVV in the scrotum in the selected patients with OA and severe OAT could yield good results. We regard the CVV in the scrotum as an efficacious operation with a lower risk of injury in cases of atypical OA.

Protective effect of Lepidium sativum seed extract on histopathology and morphology of epididymis in diabetic rat model / Efecto protector de extracto de semilla Lepidium sativum sobre la histopatología y morfología del epidídimo en modelo de rata diabética

Diabetes mellitus is a frequent and serious metabolic illness all over the world and plants have been a desirable source of medicine recently. Diabetes has unpleasant effect on male reproductive system and it may lead to male infertility. It causes erectile dysfunction and reduces ejaculate volume by affecting the health of small blood vessels and the small nerves that control ejaculation and also decreases libido by decreasing testosterone levels. Current study evaluated the possible protective efficiency of Lepidium sativum (Garden cress) seed extract on fasting blood sugar (FBS) and then assessed histopathological change of epididymis in streptozotocine (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. We randomly categorized 50 adult male Wistar rats into five groups (each 10 rats). Group 1 was control placebo group receiving only 0.1 ml normal saline via gastric gavages, Group 2 as control diabetic rats received an intraperitoneal (IP) injection of STZ 60 mg/kg body weight. Rats with FBS >250 mg/dl were considered as diabetic. Group 3 were diabetic rats receiving insulin in dose 3U/100 g body weight and Groups 4 and 5 were diabetic rats that received 0.1 cc of 200 and 400 mg/kg, ethanol extract of Lepidium sativum seed by gavages daily. One day after the last gavages, rats were anesthetized by chloroform. Epididymis duct was removed from abdomen and weighed with a digital scale. Afterwards, samples were putted in Bouin's solution for histological measurement. Administration of 200 and 400 mg/ml doses of Lepidium sativum seed extract increased epithelium height and decreased interstitial volume density and fibro muscular thickness significantly. Also, volume density of epithelium, fibro muscular, lumen and interstitial decreased significantly. Tubular and lumen diameter did not change significantly in different groups. It appears Lepidium sativum seed extract is a beneficial protective supplementary agent against adverse effects of diabetes on male reproductive system.

La diabetes mellitus es una enfermedad metabólica frecuente y grave que afecta a los hombres en todo el mundo. Recientemente, las plantas han sido una fuente deseable de medicina para este tipo de enfermedad. La diabetes tiene un efecto perjudicial en el sistema reproductivo masculino y puede conducir a la infertilidad. Causa disfunción eréctil y reduce el volumen de la eyaculación al afectar los pequeños vasos sanguíneos y los nervios que controlan la eyaculación. También disminuye la libido reduciendo los niveles de testosterona. El presente estudio evaluó la posible eficacia protectora del extracto de semilla de Lepidium sativum en la glucemia en ayunas y también se evaluó el cambio histopatológico del epidídimo en ratas diabéticas inducidas por estreptozotocina (STZ). Se dividieron aleatoriamente 50 ratas Wistar macho adultas en cinco grupos de 10 ratas cada uno. El grupo 1 recibió 0,1 ml de solución salina normal a través de los gavajes gástricos, el grupo 2 de ratas diabéticas control recibió una inyección intraperitoneal (IP) de STZ 60 mg / kg de peso corporal. Las ratas con FBS> 250 mg / dl se consideraron como diabéticas. El Grupo 3 eran ratas diabéticas que recibieron insulina en dosis de 3 U/ 100 g de peso corporal y los Grupos 4 y 5 estaban compuestos por ratas diabéticas que recibieron 0,1 cc con 200 y 400 mg / kg, de extracto de etanol de semillas de Lepidium sativum por gavajes diarios. Un día después de los últimos gavages, las ratas fueron anestesiadas con cloroformo. Se extrajo el epidídimo y se pesó con una pesa digital. Posteriormente, las muestras se pusieron en solución de Bouin para el estudio histológico. La administración de dosis de 200 y 400 mg / ml de extracto de semilla Lepidium sativum aumentó la altura del epitelio y disminuyó significativamente la densidad volumétrica intersticial y el grosor fibromuscular. Además, la densidad volumétrica del epitelio fibromuscular, lumen e intersticio disminuyeron significativamente. El diámetro tubular y el lumen no cambiaron significativamente en los diferentes grupos. El extracto de semilla de Lepidium sativum es un agente complementario beneficioso protector contra los efectos adversos de la diabetes en el sistema reproductor masculino.

Intestinal mucinous adenocarcinoma with metastases to epididymis, testis and tunica albuginea in a dog

A case of intestinal mucinous adenocarcinoma with metastasis to gonadal tissue is reported. A 13-year-old, male, poodle dog presented with intestinal and peritoneal masses, as well as infiltrative masses in testicular tunics. Samples were biopsied and submitted for histopathological analysis. Microscopically, intestinal lesion consisted of an adenocarcinoma (mucinous type), with infiltration of muscular layers and mesenteric adipose tissue. In gonadal tissue, there was neoplastic infiltration of epididymis and tunica albuginea (with a predominantly tubular pattern), and testicular parenchyma (with a predominantly signet-ring cell pattern). Immunohistochemistry was positive for CDX2 and pancytokeratin, and negative for vimentin, supporting the diagnosis of intestinal mucinous adenocarcinoma with metastases to epididymis, testis and tunica albuginea.

Phyllanthus emblica l. branch extract ameliorates testicular damage in valproic acid-induced rats / El extracto de la rama de Phyllanthus emblica l. disminuye el daño testicular inducido por ácido valproico en ratas

Valproic acid (VPA), widely used in treating epileptic patients, can damage reproductive parameters causing male infertility. This study aimed to investigate protective effect of Phyllanthus emblica L. branch (PE) extract on rat testicular damage induced with VPA. Male rats were divided into 6 groups (control, VPA, 250 mg/kgBW PE only, and 50, 100, 250 mg/kgBW PE+VPA, respectively). Animals were pretreated with PE for 23 days and co-administered with VPA for 10 days before all reproductive parameters were determined. The results showed all doses of PE significantly protected the decrease testicular weight and testosterone level in VPA rats. PE significantly improved the decrease sperm concentration in VPA treated rats. Moreover, testicular histology of PE+VPA groups showed declining of testicular histopathologies as compared to VPA group. Therefore, it seems that PE branch extract can prevent testicular damages including male reproductive parameters in rats induced with VPA.

El ácido valproico (AVP) es utilizado frecuentemente en el tratamiento de pacientes epilépticos y puede dañar los parámetros reproductivos que causan la infertilidad masculina. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar el efecto protector de la rama Phyllanthus emblica L. (PE) sobre el daño testicular de ratas inducidas con AVP. Ratas machos fueron divididas en 6 grupos (control, AVP, PE 250 mg/kg peso corporal, APV+ PE 50, 100, 250 mg/kg peso corporal, respectivamente). Los animales fueron pretratados con PE durante 23 días y se administró AVP durante 10 días antes de medir todos los parámetros reproductivos. Los resultados mostraron que todas las dosis de PE protegen significativamente el peso y los niveles reducidos de testosterona testicular en ratas con AVP. El extracto de PE mejoró significativamente la concentración de espermatozoides en ratas tratadas con AVP. Por otra parte, la histología testicular de los grupos PE+AVP mostró disminución de la histopatología testicular en comparación con el grupo tratado sólo con AVP. Por lo tanto, parece que el extracto de la rama PE puede prevenir daños testiculares incluyendo los parámetros reproductores masculinos en ratas inducidas con AVP.

The effects of maternal low protein and estrogen on sexual behavior and testicular maturation in male rats / Efectos de niveles maternos bajos de estrógeno y proteína sobre el comportamiento sexual y maduración testicular en ratas macho

In recent years, disorders related to the development and function of the male reproductive tract has increased, thus generating a surprising decrease in semen volume and sperm count. We examined the effects of low protein and estrogen on sexual behavior and testicular maturation in male rats. We also examined FSH, LH and testosterone levels and histological damage of testis tissue. The male rats were subjected to standard long-term treatment with estradiol by oral and paranteral delivery. The number of mounts, copulatory efficiency and ejaculation latencies for the paranteral protein diet (PPD) group was significantly lower than those in a group nourished with a low protein diet (LPD) and oral protein diet (OPD) groups (P<0.05). Testes and epididymis sections were examined by four grades, according to the level of damage of epithelium in the testes and epididymis. Higher histological damage was also detected in the PPD group. In conclusion, the present study confirmed that unwanted estrogen effects were higher in the paranteral administered group on examination of sexual behavior and histological damage of epithelium in the testes and epididymis of male rats.

En los últimos años, los trastornos relacionados con el desarrollo y la función del tracto reproductivo masculino han aumentado, lo que genera una disminución importante en el volumen de semen y el conteo de espermatozoides. Se examinaron los efectos de niveles bajos en proteínas y estrógeno en el comportamiento sexual y la maduración testicular en ratas macho. También se examinaron FSH, LH y los niveles de testosterona y el daño histológico de tejido testicular. Las ratas macho fueron sometidas al tratamiento y administración estándar a largo plazo con estradiol por vias oral y parenteral. El número de montajes, eficiencia de copulación y latencias de eyaculación para el grupo de dieta de proteínas parenteral (DPP) fue significativamente menor que los del grupo con una dieta baja en proteínas (PBD) y de proteína oral baja (POB) grupos (P<0,05). Fueron examinados los testículos y epidídimo de acuerdo a cuatro grados, en relación al nivel de daño del epitelio en los testículos y epidídimo. También se detectó un mayor daño histológico en el grupo DPP. En conclusión, se confirma que los efectos no deseados del estrógeno fueron mayores en el grupo con administración parenteral en el examen de conducta sexual y en el daño histológico del epitelio en los testículos y el epidídimo de ratas macho.

Effects of traction on the spermatic cord of rats

PURPOSE: To determine whether tension in the spermatic cord of rats causes lesions in the testis, epididymis or vas deferens. METHODS: Forty Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups. A traction force of 1.6 Newton (N) in group I and 1 N in group II was applied to the right spermatic cord. Group III was the sham, and group IV served as the control. RESULTS: Testicular lesions occurred on the right side in 66.7% of the rats and on the left side in 46.1% of the rats. The testes showed a decreased number of Sertoli cells, necrosis and a decreased number of germ cells in the seminiferous tubules. Anatomopathological changes in the vas deferens were not identified. There was no decrease in the thickness of the muscle wall of the vas deferens. In the right epididymis, 71.8% of the animals showed a reduction and 5% showed an absence of intraluminal sperm. In the left epididymis, 37.5% of the rats showed a reduction. The volume and the final testicular weight of the right side in group IV was different from those in the other groups. CONCLUSIONS: Anatomopathological lesions were found in the testis and epididymis. .

Melatonin protective role in mouse cauda epipidymal spermatozoa damage induced by sodium arsenite / Rol protector de la melatonina en el daño de espermatozoides de cauda epididimaria en ratón producido por arsenito de sodio

We evaluated the sperm parameters such as cauda epididymis weight, sperm count, sperm morphology and sperm DNA stability of adult CF-1 male mice treated daily (oral exposure) with the toxic sodium arsenite (As, 7.0 mg/kg/body weight); Melatonin (Me, 10.0 mg/kg/bw), Me (10.0 mg/kg/bw) plus As (7.0 mg/kg/bw) and Negative Control (NaCl 0.9 percent) to assess acute (8.3 days), chronic (33.2 days) and recovery of testicular damage (66.4 days). Arsenic decreases the number of sperm from chronic treatment (33.2 days) and this effect continued until 66.4 days of treatment. The toxic effect of As also altered the morphology of spermatozoa in all treatment periods when compared to the negative control group. However, Metalonin induced protective effects in periods of 33.2 and 66.4 days of treatment. Additionally, the stability of DNA was significantly affected by arsenic in all periods, but the chronic treatment (33.2 days) in the AsMe revealed increased stability compared to the group treated with arsenic only. Melatonin partially protects sperm toxicity caused by Arsenic, especially during periods of 33.2 and 66.4 days.

Se evaluaron los parámetros espermáticos como peso de la cola del epidídimo, conteo de espermatozoides, morfología de los espermatozoides y estabilidad del ADN de espermatozoides de ratones machos adultos CF-1 tratados diariamente (exposición oral) con el tóxico arsenito de sodio (As, 7,0 mg/kg/peso corporal), melatonina (Me, 10,0 mg/kg/pc, Me (10,0 mg/kg/pc) más As (7,0 mg/kg/pc) y el Control Negativo (NaCl 0,9 por ciento) en evaluación aguda (8,3 días), crónica (33,2 días) y recuperación del daño testicular (66.4 días). El arsénico reduce el número de espermatozoides en el tratamiento crónico (33,2 días) y este efecto continuó hasta 66,4 días. El efecto tóxico de As también altero la morfología de los espermatozoides en todos los períodos de tratamiento cuando se compara con el grupo control negativo. Sin embargo, metalonina indujo efectos protectores en períodos de 33,2 y 66,4 días de tratamiento. La estabilidad del ADN se vio afectada significativamente por el arsénico en todos los periodos, pero en el tratamiento crónico (33,2 días) con AsMe se observa un aumento de la estabilidad em comparación com el grupo tratado con arsénico. Sin embargo, la melatonina protege parcialmente a los espermatozoides del daño causado por arsénico, especialmente durante los períodos de 33,2 y 66,4 días.

Structural analysis of testicular appendices in patients with cryptorchidism

Objectives Report the incidence and structure of testicular appendices (TAs) in patients with cryptorchidism, comparing their incidence with epididymal anomalies (EA) and patency of the vaginal process (PVP) and analyzes the structure of TAs. Material and Methods We studied 72 testes of patients with cryptorchidism (average of 6 years), and 8 testes from patients with hydroceles (average of 9 years). We analyzed the relations among the testis, epididymis and PVP and prevalence and histology of the TAs. The appendices of 10 patients with cryptorchidism and 8 with hydrocele were dissected and embedded in paraffin and stained with Masson trichrome; Weigert and Picro-Sirius Red with polarization and immunohistochemistry analysis of the collagen type III fibers to observe collagen. The stereological analysis was done with the software Image Pro and Image J, using a grid to determine volumetric densities (Vv). Means were statistically compared using the ANOVA and unpaired T test (p < 0.05). Results Of the 72 testes with cryptorchidism, 20 (27.77%) presented EA, 41 (56.9%) had PVP and 44 (61.1%) had TAs. Of the 44 testes with cryptorchidism and appendices, 30 (68.18%) presented PVP and 11 (25%) presented EA. There was no alteration of the epithelium in the appendices of patients in both groups. Stereological analysis documented the prevalence of ESFs (mean of 1.48%), prevalence of veins (mean of 10.11%) and decrease (p = 0.14) of SMCs in the TAs of patients with cryptorchidism (mean = 4.93%). Collagen III prevailed in the TAs of patients with cryptorchidism. Conclusion The testicular appendices presented significant structural alteration in the patients with cryptorchidism, indicating that TAs present a structural remodeling. .

Orquiepididimite em carneiro por Salmonella enterica sub-diarizonae: primeiro caso na América do Sul / Orchiepididymitis in ram by Salmonella enterica sub diarizonae: first case in South America

O objetivo deste artigo é relatar um caso de orquiepididimite associado com infecção por Salmonella enterica subespécie diarizonae em carneiro da raça Santa Inês de quatro anos de idade, vasectomizado. Ao exame clínico reprodutivo, o animal mostrou aumento severo do conteúdo escrotal, sendo o testículo direito maior do que o esquerdo e a cauda do epidídimo direita maior do que a esquerda. A consistência testicular, avaliada em escala de 1 a 5, foi 5 para o testículo direito e 2,5 para o esquerdo; o órgão apresentava-se muito sensível ao toque. Na ultrassonografia foram observadas estruturas anecoicas/hipoecoicas circulares na cauda do epidídimo, sugestivas de abscessos; alguns pontos hiperecogênicos no parênquima testicular, sugerindo lesões de calcificação; e todo o testículo direito rodeado por imagem hipoecoica, indicativa de edema. Uma das estruturas da cauda do epidídimo direita foi puncionada, encontrando-se exsudato purulento, o qual foi enviado para exame microbiológico, sendo isolada e identificada Salmonella enterica subespécie diarizonae. O carneiro foi submetido a orquiepididectomia, e o órgão foi caracterizado macroscopicamente por adesões fibrosas entre as camadas escrotais, coexistência de abscessos epididimários e degeneração testicular. A Salmonella enterica subespécie diarizonae deve ser considerada no diagnóstico diferencial de infecção genital em ovinos.

The objective of this manuscript was to report a case of orchiepididymitis associated with Salmonella enterica subespécie diarizonae infection in a vasectomized 4-year-old Santa Inês ram. In the clinical-reproductive examination, the animal showed a severe enlargement of the scrotal contents, being the right testicle larger than left, and the right epididymal cauda was higher than the left. The testicular consistency, evaluated in a scale from 1 to 5, was 5 to the right and 2.5 to the left, and the organ was very sensitive to the touch. In the ultrasound circular structures anechoic/hypoechoic in the epididymal cauda were observed, and in the parenchyma of testicles some points of hyperechogenic image, suggesting calcification lesions and the entire right testicle was surrounded by hypoechoic image, indicative of edema. One of those structures of the right epididymal cauda was aspirated and a purulent exsudate was found, which was sent to microbiological exam, was isolated and identified Salmonella enterica subespécie diarizonae. The ram was submitted to orchiepididectomy, and the organ was characterized macroscopically by fibrous adhesions between scrotum layers, coexistence of epididymal abscesses and testicular degeneration. The Salmonella enterica subspecie diarizonae must be taken into account in the differential diagnosis of ovine genital infections.

Leiomyoma of the epididymis: a case report and review of the literature

Tumors of the epididymis, whether benign or malignant, primary or secondary are very rare. Adenomatoid tumors and leiomyomas are the most frequently diagnosed benign tumors of the epididymis. We report a case of a left-sided asymptomatic leiomyoma of the epididymis in a 39-year-old Asian man who presented with an inguinal hernia on the right side. Ultrasonography was suggestive of adenomatoid tumor of the epididymis. Surgical exploration was done through an inguinal incision with conservative excision of the benign looking mass of the tail of the epididymis. Frozen section was not performed because of clinical suspicion of tuberculosis. Histopathological examination revealed an epididymal leiomyoma. Herein, we report this case and review the relevant literature

Protective effects of zinc against lead toxicity in adult mice testis and epididymis

Lead is an environmental pollutant which has received much attention, partly because of the particular sensitivity of children to this element. It is capable of impairing many elements of the systems, which results from its great affinity to tissues. Exposure of men to lead has been associated with adverse effects on male reproductive system. So antioxidant nutrients through exogenous supplementation might he associated with beneficial role. Antioxidant nutrients including vitamin E. vitamin C, vitamin B[6], beta-carotene and zinc. This study was designed to investigate the effects of lead following concomitant administration u/zinc on testis and epididymis and its beneficial role in lead-induced oxidative stress. 30 adult male nice were divided into three groups. Group I [control], group II [received lead as lead acetate, 8 mg/kg body weight,] injected to animals intraperitoneal once daily for six weeks while group III [received lead with the same dose as group II and zinc, 1mg/kg zinc sulphate] at the same mime for six weeks. Testes and epididymis were stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin. Moreover, Semithin sections of the epididymis and ultrathin sections of the testes were done. The epithelial height in epididymal tubules and the interstitial tissue % in the testes were measured. The testes and epididyinis of lead treated mice showed degenerative changes. The seminiferous tubules Showed disorganization and reduced, germ cells populations which appeared apoptotic with diminished spermatogenesis and deeply stained interstitial cells of Leydig. The interstitial tissue % in the testes increased in lead treated group with high significant difference when compared with control groups. The epididymis appeared damaged with decrease in epididymal epithelial height, in addition to disappearance of apical stereocilia. The testes and epididymis of zinc and lead treated mice showed improvement in the seminiferous and epididymal tubules. In conclusion, zinc played a protective role against lead toxicity in mice testis and epididymis

Estudo histopatológico do efeito da nicotina nos testículos e epidídimos de ratos / Histopathologic study of the effect of nicotine in testis and epididymis of rats

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A importância da avaliação do testículo e do epidídimo de ratos tratados com nicotina se deve ao fato desta estar relacionada com o alto índice de infertilidade em pacientes fumantes. A isso se alia o fato de nos últimos anos a qualidade do esperma humano e da sua fertilidade potencial terem diminuído significativamente. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar histopatologicamente os possíveis efeitos da nicotina na morfologia epididimária e testicular de ratos, bem como correlacionar as alterações do tecido epididimário e testicular observada com o processo de infertilidade, sob a análise crítica da morfologia tecidual. MÉTODO: Ratos Wistar machos adultos divididos em grupo tratados com solução fisiológica e grupo tratado com nicotina, ambos por via subcutânea. A seguir, foram coletadas amostras do epidídimo e do testículo, as quais foram processadas histologicamente,coradas em HE, para a análise da influência da nicotina. RESULTADOS: A análise macroscópica do epidídimo e testículo dos ratos tratados com nicotina não apresentaram alterações. No estudo microscópio o epidídimo e o testículo apresentaram congestão e hemorragia. CONCLUSÃO: A administração de nicotina, na dose e durante o período utilizado neste experimento, foi capaz de promover importantes alterações vasculares no epidídimo e testículo, podendo comprometer a fertilidade em ratos machos.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The importance of evaluation of testis and epididymis of rats treated with nicotine is based on its relation to the high rate of infertility in smokers. This is concerned to the fact that in recent years the quality of human sperm and fertility potential has markedly decreased. The objective of this study isto evaluate histopathologically the possible effects of nicotine on epididymal and testicular morphology in rats. To establish a correlation from the observation of the epididymis and testicular tissue to the infertility process, under critical view of tissular morphology. METHOD: Adult male Wistar rats were divided into groups treated with saline or nicotine subcutaneously. Next, samples were collected from the epididymis and testis, which were processed histologically and stained by HE, for the analysis of the influence of nicotine. RESULTS: There were no evidence of changes in testis and epididymis on macroscopic observation. The microscopy showed testis and epididymis with congestion and hemorrhage. CONCLUSION: Nicotine administration, in dose and period used in this experiment can play significant role on vascular changes in the epididymis and testis that might impair fertility in male rats.

La lepra y el testículo / Leprosy and the testis

Introducción. La afección testicular es frecuente en la lepra lepromatosa, daño que se incrementa cuando cursa con eritema nudoso leproso. Objetivo. Presentar un paciente con lepra lepromatosa y eritema nudoso leproso con grave compromiso testicular. Materiales y métodos. Se estudió un hombre de 28 años con lepra lepromatosa desde los 22, que durante la poliquimioterapia para la lepra presentó eritema nudoso leproso crónico que afectó ambos testículos y no respondió al manejo convencional. El dolor persistente obligó a practicar orquidectomía izquierda. Resultados. Este testículo presentaba atrofia tubular y fibrosis notorias, conglomerados de macrófagos espumosos, sin bacilos, hiperplasia focal de células de Leydig, endarteritis y arteritis linfocitaria y granulomatosa de vasos pequeños y medianos; estos cambios también estaban presentes en el epidídimo. Un estudio llevado a cabo dos años después de terminar su tratamiento y de la orquidectomía izquierda, demostró azoospermia, testosterona total normal, testosterona libre discretamente disminuida y hormonas lutropina (luteinizante) y folitropina (estimulante del folículo) elevadas. No había disminución de la libido ni de su actividad sexual. Se revisaron los conceptos generales sobre el eritema nudoso leproso y las alteraciones que la lepra produce en el testículo. Conclusión. La lepra lepromatosa puede conducir a hipogonadismo. Los programas de lepra deben contemplar esta complicación para corregir y evitar sus secuelas.

Introduction. Damage of testicles is frequent in lepromatous leprosy and worsened by the presence of erythema nodosum leprosum. Objective. A patient is presented who developed lepromatous leprosy and erythema nodosum leprosum with major testicular compromise. Material and methods. The 28-year-old male patient had lepromatous leprosy since age 22. During a polychemotherapy treatment for the lepromatous leprosy, he presented chronic erythema nodosum leprosum that affected both testicles; he did not respond to the conventional treatment. A left orchidectomy was performed to treat the persistent pain. Results. The extracted testis evidenced the following: tubular atrophy, extensive fibrosis, cumulus of foamy macrophages without rods, focal Leydig cell hyperplasia, linfocitary and granulomatous arteritis and endarteritis of small and medium size vessels. These changes were also observed in the epididymis. Two years after the polychemoterapy and the orchidectomy, the patient exhibited azoospermy, normal total testosterone, slightly diminished free testosterone and elevated levels of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. No loss of libido or sexual activity was reported. General concepts of erythema nodosum leprosum were reviewed, as well as the pathologic changes produced by leprosy in the testis. Conclusion. Lepromatous leprosy may lead to hypogonadism. This condition is recommended for inclusion in leprosy diagnostic programs in order to detect and treat the consequences of the possible hypogonadism.

Tumor adenomatoide urológico: presentación clínico-patológica de 14 casos / Urologic adenomatoid tumor: clinico pathological presentation of 14 cases

El Tumor Adenomatoide es la neoplasia paratesticular más frecuente y localizada principalmente en el epidídimo. Material y método: Se presenta una serie clínico-patológica de 14 tumores adenomatoides urológicos diagnosticados entre 1975-2011. Resultados: La edad media de presentación fue de 46 años (rango 32-67 años). La mayoría de los casos se presentó como un nódulo firme indoloro en el epidídimo. No hubo casos de localización intratesticular. Se realizó tumorectomía en 13 casos y además orquiectomía en uno. Los tumores midieron una media de 1.9 cm (rango 0.3-5 cm) y macroscópicamente fueron sólidos, blanquecinos y bien delimitados. A la histología estaban formados por estructuras adenomatoides irregulares rodeadas por tejido fibroso. La inmunotinción para Queratina y Calretinina fueron positivas, lo que apoya el origen mesotelial del tumor. El curso clínico fue benigno en todos los casos, sin presentar recurrencias. Conclusión: Corresponde a una neoplasia benigna urogenital rara de origen mesotelial y que compromete con frecuencia el epidídimo. Se presentaron en hombres de edad media y que en la mayoría fueron tratados con tumorectomía, mostrando un curso clínico benigno...

Adenomatoid Tumor is the most frequent paratesticular neoplasia and it is located mainly in the epididymis. Material and methods: A series of 14 cases of Urological Adenomatoid Tumor diagnosed between 1975 - 2011 is presented. Results: Average age at presentation was 46 years (range 32-67 years). The majority of the cases were presented as a painless and firm nodule in the epididymis. No cases involving the testicular parenchyma were seen. The tumors measured an average of 1.9 cm (range 0.3 - 5 cm) and grossly all cases were solid, whitish and fair/y well demarcated. The histology revealed adenomatoid structures surrounded by fibrous tissue. The immunostains were positive for keratin and calretinin which support‘ the mesothelialial origin of the tumor. All cases showed a benign clinical course and no relapses were found. Conclusion: Correspond to a rare benign urogenital/neoplasia that frequently involves the epidermis. They were presented in middle age men and in the majority of the cases were treated by lumpectomy, showing a bening clinical course...

Effect of bisphenol A on the cauda epididymis of adult male albino rats and the possible protective role of quercetin: a histological and immunohistochemical study

Bisphenol A is a compound released into the environment. It affects male reproductive organs. Quercetin is an antioxidant substance that attenuates various disorders induced by environmental contaminants. To study the effect of bisphenol A on histological structure and immunohistochemical expression of antioxidant glutathione reductase enzyme in cauda epididymis of adult male albino rats, and to evaluate the possible protective effects of quercetin. Fifty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: control group 1, group 2 receiving bisphenol A, group 3 receiving quercetin, and group 4 receiving bisphenol A and quercetin. After 8 weeks of the experiment, blood was collected for serum testosterone assessment and rats were killed. Cauda epididymis was prepared for histological and immunohistochemical study. Epididymal sperms were obtained to assess sperm concentration and percentage of normal and abnormal sperm forms. Control group 1 showed positive immune reaction of glutathione reductase in cauda epididymis. Group 2 receiving bisphenol A showed structural and ultrastructural degenerative changes in addition to negative immune reaction of glutathione reductase, and a significant decrease in serum testosterone, sperm concentration, and percentage of normal sperm forms associated with a significant increase in the percentage of abnormal forms. Group 3 was not apparently different from group 1 in histological and immunohistochemical reaction. In group 4, quercetin prevented most of changes in cauda epididymis, glutathione reductase, sperms, and testosterone level. Bisphenol A resulted in degenerative changes in cauda epididymis of adult male albino rats. Quercetin prevented most of the changes, suggesting its possible protective effect

Histomorphometric changes in the testes and epididymis of wistar strain albino rats following fourteen days oral administration of therapeutic doses of some antibiotics / Cambios histomorfométricos en los testículos y el epidídimo de ratas cepa wistar albinas después de catorce días de administración oral de dosis terapéuticas de algunos antiobióticos

Studies on testes and epididymis tissue of rats treated orally for fourteen days with therapeutic doses of cloxacillin (6mg/100g/day), ampicillin (4mg/100/day) and tetracycline (12mg/100g/day) separately showed a significant reduction in testicular and epididimis architecture. Microscopic studies of these male reproductive organs further revealed a significant alteration in the epididymis as revealed by a significant reduction (p<0.05) in epididymal ductular diameter (EDD), and epididymal epithelial height (EEH) in treated group of animals. A significant increase (p<0.05) was however recorded in epididymal luminal diameter (ELD) in all the animals after the two and three week's recovery period allowed. This gives another insight into the toxicity activities of these antibiotics on male reproductive organs, apart from reduction in serum testosterone level, decreased sperm motility, decreased spermatozoa count and decrease in RNA and DNA content of spermatogenic cells as earlier reported.

Estudios referentes a testículos y tejido epididimario en ratas tratadas por vía oral durante catorce días, con dosis terapéuticas de cloxacilina (6mg/100g/día), ampicilina (4mg/100/día) y tetraciclina (12mg/100g/día) por separado muestran una reducción significativa en el peso testicular y epidídimario. Los estudios microscópicos de los órganos reproductores masculinos revelan además una alteración significativa en el epidídimo como se observa en la reducción del diámetro (p<0,05) de los conductos del epidídimo (EDD), y la altura del epitelio epididimal (EEH) en el grupo de los animales tratados. Sin embargo, se registró un aumento significativo (p <0,05) en el diámetro luminal del epidídimo (ELD) en todos los animales después de dos y tres semanas del período de recuperación. Esto genera otro punto de vista en relación a la toxicidad de estos antibióticos en los órganos reproductivos masculinos, además de la reducción de la concentración sérica de testosterona, disminución de la motilidad del esperma, disminución del recuento de espermatozoides y disminución en el contenido de ARN y ADN en las células de espermatogénesis como se reportó anteriormente.

Rat spermatogenesis damage in intermittent hypobaric hypoxia and the protective role of melatonin: I cauda epididymal spermatozoa / Daño en la espermatogénesis de rata en hipoxia hipobárica intermitente y el papel protector de la melatonina: I espermatozoides de la cauda epididimaria

At present it is not clear if male fertility is affected by intermittent hypobaric hypoxia (IHH). This is an important issue since a large human population works over 3000 masl. This study analyzes epididymal sperm, in adult Sprague Dawley rats after five cycles of IHH (7 days exposure to 4200 masl in a hypobaric chamber / 7 days at 500 masl). The animals were separated into groups of 8, one group was exposed to hypoxia (7 days), and the others to IHH for one to five cycles. Controls (500 masl) were examined at the beginning and at the end of the 70 experimental days. A duplicate set of rats treated with melatonin (supposedly protecting from hypoxia) was also examined, as were their controls, injected with 0,03 percent ethanol (melatonin solvent). Epididymal sperm parameters, were evaluated. Damage caused by IHH increases with time. Sperm counts drop, while sperm chromatin swelling, DNA instability (metachromasia with acridine orange epifluorescence) and comet (+) tests increase. Melatonin counteracts all this damage, possibly due to its high efficiency as a reactive oxygen species scavenger. In conclusion, IHH exposure damages sperm quality and therefore male reproductive function.

En la actualidad no está claro si la fertilidad masculina se ve afectada por la hipoxia hipobárica intermitente (HHI). Esta es una cuestión importante, ya que una gran población humana trabaja a más de 3000 metros sobre el nivel del mar (msnm). Este estudio analiza los espermatozoides del epidídimo, en ratas Sprague Dawley adultas, después de cinco ciclos de HHI (7 días de exposición a 4200 msnm en una cámara hipobárica / 7 días a 500 msnm). Los animales fueron separados en grupos de 8, un grupo fue expuesto a la hipoxia (7 días), y los otros a HHI de uno a cinco ciclos. Los controles (500 msnm) se examinaron al comienzo y al final de los 70 días de experimentación. Un grupo duplicado de ratas tratadas con melatonina (supuestamente protegiendo de la hipoxia) también fue examinado, al igual que los controles, inyectados con 0,03 por ciento de etanol (solvente de melatonina). Los parámetros espermáticos del epidídimo fueron evaluados. Los daños causados por la HHI aumentaron con el tiempo. Se evaluó el conteo espermático en gota, mientras la cromatina espermática esta hinchada, la inestabilidad del ADN (metacromasia epifluorescente con naranjo de acridina) y la prueba de aumento (+) de cometas. La melatonina neutralizó todo el daño, posiblemente debido a su alta eficacia como un eliminador de especies reactivas de oxígeno. En conclusión, la exposición a HHI daña la calidad espermática y por lo tanto la función reproductora masculina.