An insight into metastatic Leydig cell tumors: A case report

Abstract

Sex cord-stromal tumors comprise approximately 5% of all testicular tumors, while the remainder are of germ cell origin. Leydig cell tumors are the most common subtype of testicular sex cord-stromal tumors and account for 1%–2% of all testicular tumors. Leydig cell tumors are mostly benign but approximately 5%–10% of them have malignant potential. The commonest metastatic sites are regional lymph nodes, lung, liver, and bones. Here, we report a case of late metastatic relapsed Leydig cell disease in a 73-year-old male. The goal of this care report was to better understand manifestation and management of patients with late relapsed Leydig cell tumors and low-volume disease. Patients with metastatic Leydig cell tumors (or sex cord-stromal tumors) have poor prognosis, and standard treatment recommendations do not exist. Surgical resection of metastasis and/or chemotherapy with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin should be discussed with patients, as some were reported to have complete remission after these interventions. Although there are few literature studies and data to support ideal management, this case has shown that there may be utility for local radiation therapy in unresectable low-volume metastatic Leydig cell disease. A limitation in this report is that we will need long-term follow-up regarding this case. Given the rare occurrence of this malignancy, more data collection going forward will assist in the optimal management of future patients, given this diagnosis.