A radical prostatectomy affects the prostate, bilateral seminal vesicles (SV), and the distal parts of the bilateral vasa deferentia (VD). SV invasion (SVI) is associated with an increased risk of lymph node metastasis and recurrence. However, the significance of VD invasion (VDI), either with or without the involvement of their surgical margins, has not been fully appreciated. We think VDI might have an independent prognostic significance, as does SVI, and should be incorporated into the pathology guidelines and the staging systems of prostatic adenocarcinoma. Our case illustrates this.
Outcomes of patients with lymph node metastasis treated with radical prostatectomy and adjuvant androgen deprivation therapy in a Chinese population: results from a cohort study