Frequency of alpha-fetoprotein production by Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors of the ovary: an immunohistochemical study of eight cases.

Abstract

Eight Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCT) of the ovary were studied by immunostaining for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Immunostaining was positive only in cells resembling Leydig cells in three cases and in both Sertoli and Leydig cells in one instance. In one SLCT with positive immunostaining, serum AFP was available and was elevated. Serum level was not measured in the seven other cases. Despite the small number of cases, this study suggests that AFP expression in ovarian SLCT is not unusual. The serum AFP level may, however, depend on the size of the tumor, the proportion of Leydig cells present, and their ability to produce and to release AFP into the bloodstream.

• Authors: S Gagnon, B Têtu, E G Silva, W T McCaughey
• Journal: Modern pathology : an official journal of the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, Inc (Mod Pathol) Vol. 2 Issue 1 Pg. 63-7 (Jan 1989) ISSN: 0893-3952 [Print] United States
• PMID: 2466289 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• alpha-Fetoproteins

Topics

• Female
• Humans
• Immunohistochemistry
• Leydig Cell Tumor (metabolism, pathology)
• Ovarian Neoplasms (metabolism, pathology)
• Sertoli Cell Tumor (metabolism, pathology)
• alpha-Fetoproteins (metabolism)