The spectrum of histopathology of the testis in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

This study underscores an unexpectedly high incidence of histologic abnormalities in 33 testes from 31 patients who died of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Histologic changes of seminiferous tubules were classified into five categories: "Sertoli cell only" (14 testes, 42%), hypospermatogenesis (9, 27%), peritubular fibrosis and tubular hyalinization (5, 15%), maturation arrest (4, 12%), and normal (1, 3%). Significant interstitial fibrosis was found in 18 testes and mild lymphocytic infiltration in 5. Leydig cells were increased in 4 and decreased in 12. Opportunistic infections or Kaposi's sarcoma were not found in any of these testes. Possible explanations for the high incidence of the testicular abnormalities include direct viral cytopathic effect, antisperm antibody produced by homosexual activities, and thermal damage to the germ cells due to prolonged febrile state.