INSL3 Expression in Leydig Cell Hyperplasia and Levdia Cell Tumors

摘要

Leydig cells (LC) are testosterone-producing cells located in the interstitium of the testicular parenchyma between seminiferous tubules and are typically seen as single cells or in small aggregates. Morphologically, they are characterized by their eosinophilic cytoplasm and nuclei with prominent nucleoli. Occasionally, their cytoplasm may show plump or rod-shaped crystalloid inclusions named Reinke crystals. LC numbers are decreased or absent in Leydig cell hypoplasia or agenesis respectively,1 or increased in Leydig cell hyperplasia (LCH), and may constitute a neoplastic proliferation in Leydig cell tumor (LCT).2 LCTs are rare and account for 1% to 3% of all testicular tumors. Risk factors include cryptorchidism and Klinefelter syndrome.3