Silent testicular metastasis from carcinoma of the prostate

Abstract

Secondary testicular tumours are rare, but metastasis of prostatic carcinoma to the testis is being reported more frequently. While this may not reflect a true increased incidence, more cases are detected by bilateral orchiectomy. Of 916 patients with carcinoma of the prostate diagnosed and treated over a period of 10 years, 124 underwent bilateral orchiectomy. Three patients were found to have testicular metastasis, 1 being bilateral. The route of spread seems to be through the lumen and/or lymphatics of the vas deferens. Although it is a sign of advanced disease, the prognostic significance is undetermined.