What Is an Adenomatoid Tumor?

An adenomatoid tumor is a kind of abnormal growth that mainly arises in the reproductive system. Although these tumors are found in women, where they may grow from structures such as the uterus or fallopian tubes, they are most commonly found in the testicles in men, from around 20 to 50 years of age. An adenomatoid tumor is known as a benign mesothelial tumor, which means it is non-cancerous and consists of what are called mesothelial cells. Adenomatoid tumors are typically removed surgically. Although they are not cancer they can cause pain and may be difficult to distinguish from some cancerous tumors.

Most often, an adenomatoid tumor in the testicle appears as a small, firm lump which grows slowly and which may only be noticed by chance. Sometimes, its presence can cause enlargement of the testicle or, occasionally, there could be pain. An adenomatoid tumor diagnosis may begin by examining the lump. Then a test such as an ultrasound scan may be carried out, giving further information about the tumor's consistency, shape and position.

Although adenomatoid tumors are generally solid, they can also contain spaces or cysts. If a sample of the tumor tissue is analyzed to confirm the diagnosis, this can allow the surgeon to perform less extensive surgery, knowing that the growth is benign. Surgery is usually necessary even though the tumors are benign neoplasms, which means that they do not spread.

In the case of a testicular tumor, adenomatoid tumor surgery does not typically necessitate removal of the entire testicle, but the growth itself is cut out to avoid future problems. After removing the tumor, its cells are analyzed in detail using a microscope to ensure that the diagnosis is correct. This is important because, sometimes, it could be difficult to differentiate an adenomatoid tumor from a cancer that might require more aggressive treatment.

As well as being found in the genital regions, adenomatoid tumors can develop in other parts of the body, such as the adrenal glands or the heart, although this is rare. In the case of the female reproductive system, an adenomatoid tumor of the uterus could cause symptoms such as abnormal periods or a lump in the abdomen. Smaller tumors may not cause symptoms and could be found incidentally during surgery for other conditions. An adenomatoid tumor usually occurs as a single, isolated growth, although one case has been reported of a patient who had a number of these tumors.