Testicular development and the formation of spermatic granulomas of the epididymis after obstruction of the vas deferens in immature rats

Abstract

Purpose: Aims were to determine the effects of obstruction of the vas deferens prior to sexual maturation on testicular growth and the formation of spermatic granulomas.

Materials and methods: The vas deferens was ligated and divided bilaterally in 10-day-old Lewis rats.

Results: Testis weight and volume did not differ significantly between obstructed rats and sham controls at the majority of the intervals studied, including the end of the experiment at 128 days, although some temporary changes were observed. Testes of obstructed animals showed normal histological differentiation. Nearly all obstructed animals developed spermatic granulomas of the epididymis once they matured.

Conclusions: When obstructed prior to sexual maturation, the testes are affected only transiently, but significant epididymal alterations occur. Spermatic granulomas are located predominantly in the epididymis rather than the vas deferens.