Histology for Pathology Male Genital Tract Theresa Kristopaitis

Histology for Pathology Male Genital Tract Theresa Kristopaitis, MD Associate Professor Director of Mechanisms of Human Disease Kelli A. Hutchens, MD, FCAP Assistant Professor Assistant Director of Mechanisms of Human Disease Loyola Stritch School of Medicine

Male Reproductive System Histology Objectives • Describe the pathway for sperm conduction through the genital ducts. • Testis – On a cross section of testis identify seminiferous tubules and interstitial connective tissue. – Name the two types of cells in the seminiferous tubules - spermatogenic (germ) and supporting (Sertoli cells). – Explain the function of Sertoli cells. – On an H&E stained section, identify interstitial cells of Leydig and explain their function. • Prostate Gland – On a section of the prostate, identify prostate glands and stroma. – Identify corpora amylacea (prostatic secretions) and explain their significance. – On a high power view of the prostate describe the epithelium that lines the glands. • Penis – On a cross section of the penis identify the corpora cavernosa, corpora spongiosum, urethra and epidermis.

I. II. III. IV. V. VI. Spermatozoa leave the seminiferous tubules via the tubuli recti From the tubuli recti to the rete testis and efferent ductules which lead to the extratesticular ducts Ductus epididymis Ductus / Vas deferens Ejaculatory ducts of the prostate Urethra

Seminiferous Tubules • Consist of germinal epithelium and basement membrane – Epithelium contains various stages of spermatogenic cells and supporting cells = Sertoli Cells • Sertoli cells provide blood-testis barrier, secrete fructose, androgen binding protein, anti-Mullerian hormone, inhibin, and activin • Connective tissue in between tubules contains tubuli recti, vessels, and Leydig cells – Leydig / interstitial cells secrete testosterone

Seminiferous tubule

Germinal Epithelium Sertoli Cell Leydig cell

Prostate Composed of branched tubuloalveolar glands Lumens often contain prostatic secretions = corpora amylacea

Corpora amylacea High power view of gland with its simple columnar epithelium that is highly folded creating an irregular lumen.

Penis Full cross section image: University of Michigan Medical School Histology website

urethra Corpora Cavernosa Corpora spongiosum

Corpora Cavernosa of the Penis