A new technique examines the connective tissue framework in normal testis and in testis cancer.

Abstract

A method of cellular digestion known as Etching facilitated scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the connective tissue framework in normal testis and in cases of testis cancer. The collagen in the seminiferous tubules in normal testis has distinct lamellae and a well-defined outer border. In the germ cell tumours examined, the tubular connective tissue appeared hypertrophied, the distinct outer border was maintained in a seminoma specimen unlike in a case of non-seminoma. In a specimen of non-germ cell lymphoma there was gross distortion of the tubular connective tissue. These apparent variations in the collagen framework may have implications regarding local tumour development.