4: Seminal Vesicle

The seminal glands or seminal vesicles are most commonly affected by spread of prostate, bladder or rectal carcinoma into their structure. In rare cases, it is possible for a malignancy to arise from within the seminal vesiclesthemselves.


Adenocarcinoma of the Seminal Vesicle

Epidemiology

Only 48 cases exist in the literature. Most were in older men.

Aetiology

The aetiology of seminal vesicle adenocarcinoma is not known.

Clinical Features

Most patients present with obstructive symptoms. In rare cases haematuria or haematospermia may be the presenting symptom. Invasion of bladder, ureter, prostate or rectum may be present.

Tumour Features

There are no defined histological features; architecture varies considerably. Immunohistochemistry must be performed to exclude other primaries:

  • Negative PSA (excludes prostate)
  • Negative for CK7 (excludes prostate)
  • Positive for CK20 (excludes rectum, bladder)
  • Positive for CA-125 (excludes Mullerian tumours)

Prognosis

Prognosis is poor but androgen deprivation has a role in control of the disease.


Other Seminal Vesicle Tumours

Most other tumours of the seminal vesicles are only recorded by a few case reports. They are exceedingly rare.


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