Molecular Characterization of Testicular Mesothelioma and the Role of Asbestos as a Causative Factor
Ashleigh Hocking, E Thomas, Sarita Prabhakaran, Alexandra Jolley, Susan L. Woods, Matthew Soeberg, Sonja Klebe
Abstract
CONTEXT.—: Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis (TVT) is an extremely rare form of mesothelioma. OBJECTIVE.—: To compare the clinical and molecular characteristics of mesothelioma of the TVT with those of mesothelioma at other more common sites, including the relationship with exposure to asbestos. DESIGN.—: We present clinical and pathological data for 9 cases of primary TVT mesothelioma. We performed whole-genome sequencing on 3 cases for the first time. RESULTS.—: The majority (7 of 9 cases) of TVT mesotheliomas were epithelioid, with the remaining 2 cases showing biphasic morphology. Morphology and immunohistochemical profiles were indistinguishable from mesothelioma elsewhere. Asbestos exposure was documented for 7 of the 9 cases, with no information for 2 cases. The 3 TVT mesothelioma cases that underwent whole-genome sequencing displayed a mutational profile similar to that of mesothelioma at other sites, including NF2 and TP53 mutations. CONCLUSIONS.—: The clinical and molecular profile of TVT mesothelioma is similar to that of mesothelioma elsewhere.