Undescended testicle

Undescended testicle or cryptorchidism is a condition that is present at birth in some males. In this condition, one or both of the testes fail to descend into the scrotum before birth.

Causes

The exact cause of undescended testicle is unknown. It is generally believed to be a combination of genetics, maternal health, and environmental factors. Some research suggests that exposure to certain substances during pregnancy may increase the risk of this condition.

Symptoms

The primary sign of an undescended testicle is the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum. Because of this, the scrotum may appear smaller on one side or may look empty.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of an undescended testicle may occur during a physical examination after birth. If the testicle is not palpable, imaging studies such as an ultrasound or MRI may be used.

Treatment

Treatment for an undescended testicle is usually surgery to relocate the testicle into the scrotum. This is typically done between 6 and 12 months of age.

Complications

Potential complications of an undescended testicle include infertility, testicular cancer, and psychological stress.

See also

• Testicle
• Scrotum
• Infertility
• Testicular Cancer

Undescended testicle Resources
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References

External links

• Mayo Clinic - Undescended testicle
• WebMD - What Is an Undescended Testicle?

Further reading

• Hutson, John M.; Hasthorpe, Suzanne; Heyns, Chris F. (2005). "Anatomical and functional aspects of testicular descent and cryptorchidism". Endocrine Reviews. 26 (2): 259–280. doi:10.1210/er.2004-0005. PMID 15798098.
• Barthold, Julia Spencer; Gonzalez, Ricardo (2003). "The epidemiology of congenital cryptorchidism, testicular ascent and orchiopexy". Journal of Urology. 170 (6 Part 1): 2396–2401. doi:10.1097/01.ju.0000095793.04232.d0. PMID 14634430.