Analysis of immunological alterations associated with testicular prostheses.

PURPOSE

Recipients of silicone gel filled testicular prostheses were evaluated for the possible immunological abnormalities of human adjuvant disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medical record audits were performed for 48 recipients of a silicone gel filled testicular prosthesis. Seven patients consented to a detailed health profile questionnaire, physical examination and serological testing.

RESULTS

Retrospective chart analyses and physical examinations were unremarkable. Serological results and questionnaire responses varied. One patient with signs and symptoms suggestive of human adjuvant disease underwent prosthesis removal but adjacent tissues had no evidence of silicosis. Long-term followup was poor.

CONCLUSIONS

Immunological alterations were present in 71.4% of examined recipients but they may have been coincidental. Careful followup of recipients of a silicone gel filled testicular prosthesis is needed.