Ultrasonograhic and histopathological features of atypical interstitial (Leydig) cell tumors in two cryptorchid horses

Abstract 

This article describes atypical interstitial (Leydig) cell tumors in two cryptorchid horses. Ultrasonography allowed accurate localization of the cryptorchid testicles. Ultrasonographic features of the tumor are also presented and may be of value for the clinical diagnosis.

Histopathological evaluation of testicular tissue after cryptorchidectomy revealed atypical evolving interstitial (Leydig) cell tumors. Clinically, the tumors reported here appear to have several similarities with the interstitial (Leydig) cell tumors described in the literature, which in most cases appear to be (1) cryptorchidism–induced tumors, (2) often benign and not enlarged, and (3) often associated with aggressive behavior. Although generally considered to be uncommon, equine testicular neoplasms may occur more frequently than previously thought. The use of ultrasonography may improve diagnosis.

Key words:  Horse , interstitial (Leydig) cell tumor , neoplasia , testicle , ultrasonography