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Article
Sertoli cell only syndrome (SECOS): Lessons from case studies
Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association
  • Jamsheer J Talati, Aga Khan University
  • Hizbullah Sheikh, Aga Khan University
Publication Date
9-1-1991
Document Type
Article
Disciplines
Abstract

Between June 85 and December 87, 69 testicular biopsies were submitted for histopathological examination during investigation of infertility; ten (14%) patients had a Sertoli cell only syndrome. The history, clinical features, and hormonal profiles were analyzed in an attempt to categorize these patients on aetiological basis. Two followed treatment of malignancy--one by radiation for testicular cancer and one by cyclophosphamide for a lymphoma. One had unilateral cryptorchidism. Mumps was etiological factor in one patient. FSH levels determined in 6 patients were elevated in all suggesting a possible dependence of (sick) Sertoli cells on spermatogenic cells for production of inhibin. Alternative explanations include changes insertoli cell enzymes or FSH receptors. Testosterone levels are in the low normal range suggesting that Leydig cells may also be affected by the etiological factor producing the syndrome. Two patients who had earlier received a higher Johansen score were found to have a sertoli cell onlysyndrome on expert review of testicular biopsies. It is suggested that the condition is more common than hitherto reported and is often confused with maturation arrest. Testicular histopathology should be done by specialists in testicular pathology.

Citation Information
Jamsheer J Talati and Hizbullah Sheikh. "Sertoli cell only syndrome (SECOS): Lessons from case studies" Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association Vol. 41 Iss. 9 (1991) p. 219 - 223
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/jamsheer_talati/28/