Increased plasminogen activator enzymes of the tunica vaginalis in long-standing idiopathic hydrocele.
Previous research has shown increased fibrinolytic activity of the serous membranes as a reaction to stimuli that did not destroy their mesothelium. Large amounts of fluid remarkably stretch and chronically stimulate the tunica vaginalis in long-standing idiopathic hydrocele. For these reasons, a prospective controlled study was carried out in 30 male patients in order to investigate the possible alterations of the fibrinolytic capacity of this serosa by a method suitable for measuring plasminogen activator content of a single layer of cells. A possible role of plasminogen activator enzymes as a protective barrier against incidental absorption of fibrin/fibrinogen from the hydrocele fluid into vaginal tissues is considered.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004822:Epididymis / Q000201:enzymology*; D005342:Fibrinolysis; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010960:Plasminogen Activators / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012704:Serous Membrane / Q000201:enzymology; D006848:Testicular Hydrocele / Q000201:enzymology*; D013737:Testis / Q000201:enzymology*
D010960:Plasminogen Activators