Aggressive angiomyxoma of the scrotum

IntroductionAggressive angiomyxoma (AAM) is a rare, benign mass with propensity for local invasion and recurrence after resection. Infrequently, this tumor can be found arising from the scrotum or cord structures in males.Aim/MethodsA case report is presented followed by a review of relevant literature addressing the diagnosis, imaging, management and follow-up for aggressive angiomyxoma of the scrotum.ResultsImaging can assist in further characterization of masses noted on physical exam. Scrotal sonography is typically the primary imaging modality utilized and magnetic resonance imaging is able to provide further anatomic detail.Treatment mainstay is surgical resection with necessary long term surveillance.     

Localization of 3‐nitrotyrosine to rheumatoid and normal synovium

Objective

To determine the localization of 3‐nitrotyrosine (3‐NT), a footprint marker of peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻) and other reactive nitrogen species, to the inflamed human synovium and to compare this with normal synovial and nonsynovial tissue of human and animal origin.

Methods

Monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies were used to investigate for 3‐NT, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), macrophage marker CD68, and the vascular smooth muscle marker α‐actin by avidin–biotin immunocytochemistry.

Results

In the inflamed synovium, 3‐NT was found in the vascular smooth muscle and macrophages. In normal human synovium, 3‐NT was present in the vascular smooth muscle and some lining cells and was not associated with immunoreactivity for iNOS. Similarly, 3‐NT could be demonstrated in the vascular smooth muscle cells of normal rats and iNOS knockout mice. It was not present in the vascular smooth muscle of healthy, nonsynovial tissue.

Conclusion

The synovial vasculature in histologically normal human and naive rodent synovium was alone among the normal tissues studied in exhibiting iNOS‐independent immunoreactivity for 3‐NT. These findings suggest a physiologic role for ONOO⁻ in normal synovial vascular function.

     

Interrelationship between stimulation of prostaglandin e and hyaluronate production by poly (i).Poly (c) and interferon in synovial fibroblast culture

The interferon-inducer, polyinosinate. Polycyctidylate [Poly (I). Poly (C)] stimulated both prostaglandin E (PGE) and hyaluronic acid (HA) production by human cultured synovial fibroblasts. Increased accumulation of PGE in the medium was noted within 3 hours of culture, while accumulation of HA was observed only after a 24 hour lag period. The stimulation of PGE and HA production by Poly (I) Poly (C) was prevented by aspirin and indomethacin. Human interferon was also effective in stimulating both PGE and HA production. Concomitant addition of cortisol to culture medium abrogated the stimulatory effect of Poly (I). Poly (C) and interferon on both PGE and HA production. Exogenous PGE₂, however, overcame the inhibitory effect of cortisol on HA production. The present results suggest that the stimulatory effect of both interferon and Poly (I). Poly (C) on HA production may be mediated by PGE. Prostaglandins may thus play a role in the inflammatory process associated with viral infections.