Investigation of the possibility of using ischemia-modified albumin in testicular torsion: an experimental study

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the serum ischemia-modified albumin levels with use of an experimental testicular torsion (TT) model.

Design: Randomized, controlled experimental study.

Setting: University hospital.

Animal(s): Thirty mature male Wistar rats.

Intervention(s): Rats were divided into five groups: a sham operation group, 2- and 4-hour control (groups I and III, respectively), and 2- and 4-hour torsion groups (groups II and IV, respectively). Ischemia-modified albumin, tissue and blood malondialdehyde (MDA), tissue and blood myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity levels, and histopathologic damage scores then were compared.

Main outcome measure(s): Ischemia-modified albumin, tissue and blood MDA, tissue and blood MPO activity levels, and histopathologic damage scores.

Result(s): There was a significantly higher level of histopathologic damage in the 4-hour torsion group, and the serum ischemia-modified albumin levels in this group were significantly higher than those of the other groups. There was no difference between the groups in terms of blood and tissue MDA and MPO levels. There was no significant correlation between ischemia-modified albumin levels and blood and tissue MDA and MPO levels. The only significant correlation between histopathologic score and biochemical markers was that with blood and tissue MPO.

Conclusion(s): The results from this pioneering study determined a high level of ischemia-modified albumin in TT, indicating a potential value for TT diagnosis. The value of ischemia-modified albumin levels in TT should be investigated also with respect to prognosis.