Fine structure of Sertoli and Leydig cells in azoospermic human testis.

ABSTRACT

Testicular biopsy specimens taken from seven patients with azoospermia were studied by electron microscopy. We considered the possibility of a relationship between the annulate lamellae in the Sertoli cells and azoospermia. In the Leydig cells, we observed intranuclear and intracytoplasmic paracrystalline inclusions and considered their relationship with the Reinke crystalloid.

ABSTRACT

PIP Special attention was given to the ultrastructure of 2 organelles the annulate lamellae in the Sertoli cells and the crystalloid structure visible in the Leydig cells. Materials studied were biopsy specimens from 7 31-41 year old cases of male infertility with azoospermia or severe oligospermia. All biopsy specimens were bilateral. By light microscopy tubular atrophy with fibrosis and thickening of the boundary layer was observed. changes in the tubuli were characterized by an arrest of spermatogenesis at the stage of priamry spermatocyte production. Hyperplasia of Sertoli cells was noted with many fat vacuoles in the cytoplasm. Scattered large Sertoli cells contained Reinke crystalloids. By electron microscopy, large and irregular Sertoli cells contained abundant intracytoplasmic organelles and a prominent nucleus. The subcellular structures of the cytoplasm were all observed to be present. A specific organelle, the annulate lamellae or lamellar body, was seen in tight correlation with other structures near the nucleus. Other structural details observed are noted. Photographic reproductions illustrate electron microscopic findings. Although the presence of paracrystalline material is not specific to priamry testicular failure, the prominence of this structure in azoospermic human testes could be an expression of some modifications in the male hormone metabolism. It is suggested that a local estrogenic hyperaction could be the cause of depressed spermatogenesis and thus lead to azoospermia.