Undescended Testes

Undescended testes, also known as cryptorchidism, is a medical condition where one or both testicles have not moved down into the scrotum after birth. Normally, the testicles develop inside the abdominal cavity and migrate down to the scrotum during fetal development or shortly after birth.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of undescended testes is often unknown, but several factors can increase the risk of developing this condition. These include:

• Premature birth: Babies born prematurely are more likely to have undescended testes.
• Low birth weight: Babies with low birth weight are at higher risk.
• Family history: Having a family history of undescended testes can increase the risk.
• Certain medical conditions: Conditions such as prune belly syndrome, gastroschisis, and omphalocele can increase the risk.

Symptoms

The main symptom of undescended testes is the absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum. In some cases, the testicle may be felt in the groin area or abdomen. Other symptoms may include:

• A smaller than usual scrotum on the affected side.
• An empty scrotum on the affected side.

Diagnosis

Undescended testes are typically diagnosed during a physical examination by a healthcare provider. The diagnosis is usually made by:

• Checking for the presence and location of the testicles.
• Feeling the groin area and abdomen to locate the undescended testicle.

Treatment

Treatment for undescended testes depends on the age of the child and the location of the undescended testicle. Treatment options include:

• Hormone therapy: Hormone injections can stimulate the production of testosterone, which can help the testicle move down into the scrotum.
• Surgery: Orchiopexy is a surgical procedure that brings the undescended testicle down into the scrotum. This is usually performed between 6-18 months of age.

Complications

If left untreated, undescended testes can increase the risk of:

• Infertility: Undescended testes can affect sperm production and fertility.
• Testicular cancer: There is an increased risk of developing testicular cancer in men with a history of undescended testes.
• Testicular torsion: The undescended testicle is at higher risk of twisting, which can cut off blood supply to the testicle.

Prognosis

The prognosis for children with undescended testes is generally good if treated early. Early treatment can reduce the risk of complications and improve fertility outcomes. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor the condition and address any concerns.