Tumor - Leydig cell
Key points
- A leydig cell tumor is a tumor of the testicle consisting of masses of abnormal interstitial cells that may secrete testosterone.
- There are no known associated risk factors for developing this tumor.
- This is an uncommon tumor in prepubertal children, but may be the cause of early puberty.
- In contrast to germ cell tumors of the testicles, there does not seem to be an association with cryptorchidism (undescended testes).
Alternative names
Leydig cell tumor; Testicular tumor
Definition
A leydig cell tumor is a tumor of the testicle consisting of masses of abnormal interstitial cells that may secrete testosterone. This is an uncommon tumor in prepubertal children, but may be the cause of early puberty. It is found more commonly in adult males.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The cause of this tumor is unknown. There are no known associated risk factors for developing this tumor. In contrast to germ cell tumors of the testicles, there does not seem to be an association with cryptorchidism (undescended testes).
Leydig cell tumors make up 1-3% of all testicluar tumors. The most common presentation is in men between the ages of 20 and 60.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
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