Undescended Testicle

What is an undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)?

Undescended testicle is a congenital condition in which one or both testicles in male babies do not descend into the scrotum, their normal location. Normally, the testicles descend from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum during fetal development. However, in some cases, this descent is not complete and the testicle remains either in the abdominal cavity or in the groin.

Diagnosis Methods

An undescended testicle is usually diagnosed by physical examination. The doctor assesses the condition by carefully checking the groin and scrotum of the baby or child. Ultrasonography or other imaging tests may also be used if necessary.

What are the Causes?

The exact cause of undescended testicles is not clearly known, but some factors are thought to play a role:

• Inadequate hormonal stimulation
• Developmental problems in the testicular ducts
• Fetal growth problems
• Genetic factors
• Prematurity

What are the Treatment Methods?

Undescended testicle is a condition that usually requires surgical intervention. Treatment is usually done as follows:

• Orchidopaxy (Lowering the Testicle to the Scrotum): With surgical intervention, the testicle is lowered to the scrotum, its normal location.
• Orchidectomy (removal of the testicle): In rare cases, if the undescended testicle cannot be positioned normally or if there is damage to the testicle, the testicle may be removed.
  Hormone Therapy: In some cases, hormonal therapy may be used, but the effectiveness of this treatment is controversial.

Untreated undescended testicles can lead to fertility problems, testicular cancer and other complications later in life. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important.