Idiopathic Dense Calcification of the Seminal Vesicles

Abstract

Calcification of the seminal vesicles and vasa deferentia is a rare phenomenon and has been reported nearly exclusively in patients with diabetes mellitus,' uremia2 or chronic inflammatory processes.3 We report a case of apparently idiopathic bilateral seminal vesicle calcification. CASE REPORT A 61-year-old man underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy for adenocarcinoma of the prostate. Preoperative endorectal magnetic resonance imaging showed faint calcification in the seminal vesicles. The tumor (Gleason score 7) extended into the anterior extraprostatic soft tissue. The seminal vesicles and vasa deferentia were not involved by tumor but bilaterally showed nearly circumferential dense calcification within the muscular coats (see figure). There was no associated inflammation or underlying scarring. During hospitalization serum glucose was 97 mg./dl., serum creatinine 1.0 mg./dl. and blood urea nitrogen 13 mg./dl. Calcium was not measured. DISCUSSION Historically, calcification of the vasa deferentia was believed to be pathognomonic of diabetes, while seminal vesicle calcification was characteristic of chronic inflammation.1.2 This sharp distinction is no longer considered valid. Diabetes is often associated with calcification at both sites and inflammatory conditions, such as gonorrhea, tuberculosis and prostatitis, have been reported in association with vasal calcification.3 More recently, uremia with secondary hyperparathyroidism has been associated with calcification at these sites.2 Our patient had no significant medical conditions, no laboratory evidence of diabetes or renal failure, and no history or pathological evidence of inflammation in the seminal vesicles. Tumor did not obstruct the ejaculatory ducts and the