What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• AMF of Scrotum
• AMFB of Scrotum
• Scrotal Angiomyofibroblastoma

What is Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum? (Definition/Background Information)

• Angiomyofibroblastoma (AMF or AMFB) of Scrotum is a benign tumor of the soft tissues that occurs in the scrotum (bag-like structure of male genitalia that holds the testicles) of middle-aged and older men
• The cause of Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum is unknown and no definitive risk factors have been identified. Most tumors do not present significant signs and symptoms
• Some may grow to large sizes and can cause emotional stress. Scrotal Angiomyofibroblastoma causes a mass on the scrotum, which can make one scrotum look bigger than the other
• Surgical excision of the tumor is the preferred method of treatment. With adequate treatment, the prognosis of Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum is generally excellent, since it is a benign tumor

Who gets Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum is a rare tumor that mostly affects males in the age group 40-80 years (even though a wider age range may be involved; 17-88 years)
• There is no known ethnic group or racial preference
• Even though angiomyofibroblastoma is a rare tumor, the scrotum is a very uncommon site for this tumor type

What are the Risk Factors for Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no specific risk factors for Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum have been identified

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum? (Etiology)

• The exact cause and mechanism of Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum formation is unknown
• Some tumors have revealed certain genetic abnormalities that are being currently researched upon
• Some researchers believe that angiomyofibroblastomas are mesenchymal tumors. The mesenchyme is the middle layer of the 3 primary germ layers of an embryo, namely the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. The mesoderm gives rise to mesenchymal tissue, which is the source for bone, muscle, connective tissue, and dermis of skin

Scrotal Angiomyofibroblastoma is not a sexually-transmitted disease/condition.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum?

Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum signs and symptoms may include:

• The benign tumors grow at a very slow rate and may present no pain or tenderness
• Scrotal Angiomyofibroblastoma causes a mass on the scrotum, which can make one scrotum look bigger than the other
• The soft tissue tumors are well-circumscribed with clear borders
• The tumors are firm and solid with a rubbery feel; they may present pain on application of pressure
• In rare cases, the tumor may be observed to form a bag-like structure (pedunculated tumor)
• Majority of the tumors are less than 5 cm in size, while some grow undetected to 14 cm due to the lack of significant signs and symptoms during the initial development stages
• Some men may experience a sense of heaviness, if the tumor grows to large sizes

In general, almost all the angiomyofibroblastoma tumors are observed in the pelvic region, between the anus and the genitalia.

How is Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Scrotal Angiomyofibroblastoma is made using the following tools:

• Evaluation of the individual’s medical history and a thorough physical (pelvic) examination
• Ultrasound scan of the scrotum and testis
• CT or CAT scan with contrast of the abdomen and pelvis may show a well-defined mass in the scrotal region. This radiological procedure creates detailed 3-dimensional images of structures inside the body
• MRI scans of the abdomen and pelvis: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field to create high-quality pictures of certain parts of the body, such as tissues, muscles, nerves, and bones. These high-quality pictures may reveal the presence of the tumor

Although the above modalities can be used to make an initial diagnosis, a tissue biopsy of the tumor is necessary to make a definitive diagnosis to begin treatment. The tissue for diagnosis can be procured in multiple different ways which include:

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the tumor: A FNA biopsy may not be helpful, because one may not be able to visualize the different morphological areas of the tumor. Hence, a FNA biopsy as a diagnostic tool has certain limitations, and an open surgical biopsy is preferred
• Core biopsy of the tumor
• Open biopsy of the tumor

Tissue biopsy:

• A tissue biopsy of the tumor is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. Examination of the biopsy under a microscope by a pathologist is considered to be gold standard in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis
• Biopsy specimens are studied initially using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The pathologist then decides on additional studies depending on the clinical situation
• Sometimes, the pathologist may perform special studies, which may include immunohistochemical stains, molecular testing, and very rarely, electron microscopic studies to assist in the diagnosis

Note: The tumor can present diagnostic challenges as they are often confused during the initial stages for a hydrocele, and with an aggressive angiomyxoma (when observed under a microscope).

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum?

Complications due to Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum could include:

• Emotional stress due to a concern for cancer
• Cosmetic issues due to large size of the tumor; large tumors can compress the testis
• If the tumor is large and has infiltrated deep into adjoining regions, it may lead to significant risks during surgical operations, which could include damage of vital nerves, blood vessels, and other adjoining organs
• Post-surgical infection at the wound site is a potential complication
• Extremely rarely, the tumor may recur following their surgical excision and removal

How is Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum Treated?

Treatment measures for Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum may include the following:

• The healthcare provider may recommend a ‘wait and watch’ approach for small-sized tumors that do not cause any significant signs and symptoms, after a diagnosis of angiomyofibroblastoma has been established
• Pain medications, in case of tumors causing pain
• Surgical intervention with complete excision can result in a complete cure. It can also help reduce the chances of tumor recurrence
• Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are not usually required
• Some men may require reassurance and support to help with stress and anxiety
• Post-operative care is important: Minimum activity level is to be ensured until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged

How can Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum be Prevented?

• Current medical research has not established a way of preventing Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum
• Medical screening at regular intervals with scans and physical examinations are advised

What is the Prognosis of Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum is a benign tumor and the prognosis is excellent with suitable treatment
• Generally, there is no risk of recurrence following its complete surgical removal

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Angiomyofibroblastoma of Scrotum:

• In men, angiomyofibroblastomas can occur in the scrotum and spermatic cord

Please visit our Cancer & Benign Tumor Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/