Wnętrostwo
Objawy
Wnętrostwo (kryptorchizm) to najczęstsza wrodzona anomalia męskich narządów płciowych, charakteryzująca się brakiem zstąpienia jednego lub obu jąder do moszny przed urodzeniem. Występuje u około 3% donoszonych noworodków i do 30% wcześniaków. W 80% przypadków jądra są wyczuwalne w pachwinie lub powyżej moszny, a w pozostałych 20% pozostają niewyczuwalne, często w jamie brzusznej. Samoistne zstąpienie jąder następuje u około 80% chłopców do 3 miesiąca życia i większości pozostałych do 6 miesiąca; po tym okresie prawdopodobieństwo samoistnego zstąpienia spada do 1-2%. Nieleczone wnętrostwo wiąże się z ryzykiem niepłodności (10% przy jednostronnym, 30-65% przy obustronnym, a nawet >90% przy nieleczonym obustronnym), zwiększonym ryzykiem nowotworu jądra (4-10-krotnie wyższym niż w populacji ogólnej) oraz powikłaniami takimi jak skręt jądra (ryzyko 10-krotnie wyższe) i przepuklina pachwinowa. Diagnostyka różnicowa obejmuje jądro wędrujące i jądro wstępujące, które mają odmienne cechy kliniczne i rokowanie.
Objawy wnętrostwa
Wnętrostwo (kryptorchizm) to stan, w którym jedno lub oba jądra nie zstąpiły do moszny przed urodzeniem dziecka. Głównym i najbardziej charakterystycznym objawem wnętrostwa jest brak jednego lub obu jąder w mosznie. W większości przypadków można to zauważyć podczas rutynowego badania przeprowadzanego krótko po urodzeniu dziecka.12
U chłopców z wnętrostwem zwykle nie występują żadne objawy bólowe ani dyskomfort. Stan ten nie wpływa również na zdolność oddawania moczu.34 Jedynymi widocznymi oznakami mogą być zmiany w wyglądzie moszny, które różnią się w zależności od tego, czy problem dotyczy jednego czy obu jąder:
- Przy jednostronnym wnętrostwie – moszna może wyglądać niesymetrycznie (pełna z jednej strony, pusta z drugiej)5
- Przy obustronnym wnętrostwie – moszna będzie wydawać się nienaturalnie mała, płaska i niedostatecznie rozwinięta67
Wnętrostwo jest najczęstszą wrodzoną anomalią dotyczącą męskich narządów płciowych. Występuje u około 3% noworodków urodzonych o czasie i aż u 30% wcześniaków.8 W około 80% przypadków niezstąpionych jąder są one wyczuwalne (tzw. jądra badalne) w pachwinie lub powyżej moszny podczas badania fizykalnego. Pozostałe 20% stanowią jądra niewyczuwalne, które mogą znajdować się w jamie brzusznej.910
Naturalny przebieg wnętrostwa
W większości przypadków, jądra niezstąpione przy urodzeniu zstępują samoistnie do moszny w ciągu pierwszych miesięcy życia:1112
- U około 80% chłopców z wnętrostwem jądra zstępują samoistnie do 3 miesiąca życia13
- Większość pozostałych przypadków rozwiązuje się samoistnie do 6 miesiąca życia14
- Jeśli jądro nie zstąpiło do moszny do 6 miesiąca życia, prawdopodobieństwo samoistnego zstąpienia jest bardzo niskie (około 1-2%)1516
Ważne jest monitorowanie stanu dziecka, szczególnie jeśli wnętrostwo zostało zdiagnozowane przy urodzeniu. Zaleca się regularne badania kontrolne w pierwszych miesiącach życia, aby ocenić, czy jądra zstępują samodzielnie.17 Jeśli do 6 miesiąca życia jądra nie zstąpiły samoistnie do moszny, konieczne jest skierowanie dziecka do specjalisty – urologa dziecięcego lub chirurga, który zaleci odpowiednie leczenie.18
Jądro wędrujące – różnicowanie z wnętrostwem
Wnętrostwo należy odróżnić od jądra wędrującego (retrakcyjnego). Jądro wędrujące to takie, które porusza się między moszną a pachwiną w zależności od różnych czynników, takich jak temperatura czy pobudzenie.1920 W przypadku jądra wędrującego:
- Można je łatwo sprowadzić ręcznie do moszny podczas badania21
- Czasami pojawia się spontanicznie w mosznie i pozostaje tam przez pewien czas22
- Jest to spowodowane odruchem mięśniowym w mosznie, a nie wadą anatomiczną23
- Zazwyczaj nie wymaga leczenia chirurgicznego24
Innym stanem, który może wystąpić u starszych chłopców, jest jądro wstępujące (acquired undescended testicle), które pierwotnie zstąpiło prawidłowo, ale później powróciło do pachwiny. W przeciwieństwie do jądra wędrującego, jądra wstępującego nie można łatwo sprowadzić ręcznie do moszny.25
Powikłania i progresja nieleczonego wnętrostwa
Nieleczone wnętrostwo może prowadzić do szeregu poważnych powikłań zdrowotnych w późniejszym życiu. Dlatego wczesna diagnoza i leczenie są kluczowe dla zminimalizowania ryzyka tych problemów.2627
Zaburzenia płodności i niepłodność
Jednym z głównych powikłań nieleczonego wnętrostwa są problemy z płodnością. Jądra powinny znajdować się w mosznie, gdzie temperatura jest o 3-5 stopni niższa niż wewnątrz jamy brzusznej. Wyższa temperatura w jamie brzusznej może zaburzyć prawidłowy rozwój jąder i wpłynąć na produkcję zdrowych plemników.2829
Ryzyko problemów z płodnością zależy od kilku czynników:
- Przy jednostronnym wnętrostwie – płodność jest nieznacznie obniżona, około 10% mężczyzn może doświadczać niepłodności (w porównaniu do 6% w populacji ogólnej)30
- Przy obustronnym wnętrostwie – znacznie większe ryzyko niepłodności, około 30-65%31
- Przy nieleczonym obustronnym wnętrostwie – ryzyko niepłodności może przekraczać 90%32
Badania mikroskopowe wykazują, że niezstąpione jądra początkowo wyglądają normalnie, ale liczba spermatogoniów (komórek prekursorowych plemników) zaczyna się zmniejszać między 6 miesiącem a 2 rokiem życia. Po 2 roku życia tkanka jądra ulega stopniowej degeneracji, co może nieodwracalnie wpłynąć na przyszłą płodność.3334
Zwiększone ryzyko nowotworu jądra
Mężczyźni, którzy urodzili się z wnętrostwem, mają istotnie zwiększone ryzyko rozwoju nowotworu jądra w późniejszym życiu, nawet po przeprowadzeniu korekcji chirurgicznej.35 Ryzyko to jest:
- 4-10 razy wyższe niż w populacji ogólnej36
- Wyższe przy jądrach położonych w jamie brzusznej niż przy jądrach pachwinowych37
- Wyższe przy obustronnym wnętrostwie38
- Największe w trzeciej i czwartej dekadzie życia39
Operacja sprowadzenia jądra do moszny przeprowadzona przed okresem dojrzewania może zmniejszyć to ryzyko. Badania wykazują, że ryzyko nowotworu jądra jest około 3 razy wyższe niż w populacji ogólnej, gdy operacja zostanie przeprowadzona przed okresem dojrzewania, ale wzrasta do 5-6 razy, jeśli zabieg wykonany jest po okresie dojrzewania.4041
Inne powikłania
Oprócz problemów z płodnością i zwiększonego ryzyka nowotworów, nieleczone wnętrostwo może prowadzić do innych powikłań:4243
- Skręt jądra (torsio testis) – niezstąpione jądro ma większe ryzyko skręcenia, co może odciąć dopływ krwi i spowodować jego uszkodzenie. Jest to stan nagły wymagający natychmiastowej interwencji chirurgicznej. Ryzyko skrętu jądra jest około 10 razy wyższe u osób z wnętrostwem.4445
- Przepuklina pachwinowa – większość przypadków prawdziwego wnętrostwa jest związana z przetrwałym wyrostkiem pochwowym otrzewnej, co zwiększa ryzyko powstania przepukliny.4647
- Problemy psychologiczne – związane z nieprawidłowym wyglądem narządów płciowych, szczególnie w okresie dojrzewania.48
W rzadkich przypadkach wnętrostwo może objawiać się bólem, szczególnie gdy dochodzi do skręcenia jądra. Objawia się to silnym bólem w pachwinie lub okolicy moszny. Jest to stan nagły wymagający natychmiastowej interwencji medycznej.4950
Znaczenie wczesnego leczenia wnętrostwa
Wczesne leczenie wnętrostwa jest kluczowe dla zminimalizowania ryzyka długoterminowych powikłań. Obecnie zaleca się, aby leczenie chirurgiczne było przeprowadzone między 6 a 12 miesiącem życia dziecka, najlepiej przed ukończeniem 18 miesięcy.5152
Argumenty przemawiające za wczesnym leczeniem chirurgicznym:
- Zminimalizowanie ryzyka uszkodzenia produkcji plemników – degeneracją tkanki jądra zaczyna się już po 6 miesiącu życia53
- Zmniejszenie ryzyka nowotworu jądra – wczesna interwencja może obniżyć ryzyko rozwoju nowotworów jądra w późniejszym życiu54
- Poprawa możliwości samokontroli jąder w dorosłym życiu – łatwiejsze wykrywanie potencjalnych zmian nowotworowych55
- Zmniejszenie ryzyka innych powikłań, takich jak skręt jądra czy przepuklina56
Badania wykazują, że rezultaty leczenia są najlepsze, gdy interwencja następuje we wczesnym dzieciństwie. Odraczanie leczenia poza 2 rok życia może hamować zdolność jądra do prawidłowego wzrostu i funkcjonowania.5758
Rokowanie po leczeniu
Przy odpowiednim i terminowym leczeniu, rokowanie dla chłopców z wnętrostwem jest dobre. Operacja sprowadzenia jądra do moszny (orchidopeksja) ma wysoki wskaźnik powodzenia – około 98% skuteczności.59 Po zabiegu:
- Większość jąder rozwija się normalnie w mosznie i produkuje zdrowe plemniki60
- Przy jednostronnym wnętrostwie wskaźnik płodności wynosi około 90%61
- Przy obustronnym wnętrostwie wskaźnik płodności jest niższy, około 65-80%6263
Pomimo wczesnego leczenia, pacjenci z historią wnętrostwa nadal mają nieznacznie zwiększone ryzyko rozwoju raka jądra w porównaniu do populacji ogólnej. Dlatego zaleca się, aby wszyscy mężczyźni, którzy mieli wnętrostwo, nauczyli się samobadania jąder i regularnie je wykonywali po osiągnięciu dojrzałości płciowej.6465
Monitorowanie po leczeniu
Po przeprowadzeniu leczenia wnętrostwa, konieczne jest regularne monitorowanie stanu pacjenta:
- Kontrolne wizyty lekarskie w celu upewnienia się, że jądro pozostaje w mosznie66
- Samobadanie jąder od okresu dojrzewania w celu wczesnego wykrycia potencjalnych zmian nowotworowych67
- Świadomość zwiększonego ryzyka nowotworu jądra w wieku dorosłym68
Dzięki odpowiedniemu leczeniu i monitorowaniu, większość mężczyzn z historią wnętrostwa może prowadzić normalne życie z minimalnym ryzykiem długoterminowych powikłań.69 Wczesna interwencja jest kluczowa dla osiągnięcia najlepszych wyników i zminimalizowania ryzyka powikłań w przyszłości.70
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Materiały źródłowe
- #1 Undescended testicle – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/undescended-testicle/symptoms-causes/syc-20351995
Not seeing or feeling a testicle in the scrotum is the main symptom of an undescended testicle. […] An undescended testicle often is found during an exam done shortly after birth. If your baby has an undescended testicle, ask how often exams will need to be done. If the testicle hasn’t moved into the scrotum by 3 to 4 months of age, the condition likely won’t correct itself. […] Older boys from infants to preteens who have descended testicles at birth might appear to be missing a testicle later. This might be a symptom of: […] A retractile testicle, which moves back and forth between the scrotum and the groin. The testicle might be easily guided by hand into the scrotum during a physical exam. A retractile testicle is due to a muscle reflex in the scrotum. […] An ascending testicle, which has returned to the groin. The testicle can’t be easily guided by hand into the scrotum. Another name for this is an acquired undescended testicle.
- #2 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism): Causes & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17594-undescended-testicles
The main symptom of undescended testicles is the absence of a testicle in one or both sides of the scrotum. There are usually no other symptoms. Undescended testicles dont cause pain or affect your babys ability to urinate (pee). […] Without treatment, undescended testicles can be serious. They can lower your childs testosterone levels and affect their sperm health. With or without treatment, your child may also have a slightly increased risk of developing testicular cancer. But earlier treatment decreases this increased risk. […] If testicles dont drop into the scrotum, they may not function properly or produce healthy sperm. They can cause infertility later in life. […] Surgery to fix undescended testicles has a high success rate about 98% effective. In most cases, the testicles develop normally in the scrotum and produce healthy sperm later in life.
- #3 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism): Causes & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17594-undescended-testicles
The main symptom of undescended testicles is the absence of a testicle in one or both sides of the scrotum. There are usually no other symptoms. Undescended testicles dont cause pain or affect your babys ability to urinate (pee). […] Without treatment, undescended testicles can be serious. They can lower your childs testosterone levels and affect their sperm health. With or without treatment, your child may also have a slightly increased risk of developing testicular cancer. But earlier treatment decreases this increased risk. […] If testicles dont drop into the scrotum, they may not function properly or produce healthy sperm. They can cause infertility later in life. […] Surgery to fix undescended testicles has a high success rate about 98% effective. In most cases, the testicles develop normally in the scrotum and produce healthy sperm later in life.
- #4 Undescended testicles | Better Health Channelhttps://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/undescended-testicles
A boy with undescended testicles will have an empty scrotum on one or both sides. The condition is painless, and urination is not affected. […] Undescended testicles are linked to a range of health problems and conditions, including hernia, testicular cancer and infertility. […] If the testicle is still undescended at three months of age the baby needs to see a paediatric surgeon. […] Undescended testicles should not be confused with retractile or retractable testicles. […] Undescended testicles are diagnosed at three months of age if the testicle has failed to descend into the scrotum by that time. […] Surgery is the best treatment for undescended testicles. […] Research suggests that future sperm quality in the affected testicle is compromised if the condition is corrected after the child is two years old. […] About 10 per cent of males who undergo surgical correction experience reduced fertility later in life. […] The risk of testicular cancer is five to 10 times higher for males with undescended testicles than for the general male population.
- #5https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/genitourinary-tract/Pages/Undescended-Testicles.aspx
Typcially, boys with undescended testicles have no symptoms of pain or discomfort. The scrotum may appear small and underdeveloped. If only one testicle is undescended, the scrotum may look asymmetrical (full on one side, empty on the other). You may also notice that the testicles are sometimes in the scrotum and at other times absent (for example, when he is cold or excited). This is a condition known as retractile testicles. […] If your child’s testicle has not come down into the scrotum on its own by 6 months of age, they will likely need treatment. It is relatively rare for undescended testicles to fall into proper position after 6 months of age. So, there is usually little value to waiting. […] Since the chances of the testicle coming down on its own is slim after 6 months old, your child should be referred for treatment once they’ve reached that age. Waiting beyond 2-3 years may hinder the testicle’s ability to grow and function normally. Ideally, orchiopexy should be done within the first 18 months of life.
- #6 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism) | Boston Children’s Hospitalhttps://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/undescended-testes-cryptorchidism
In a baby affected by undescended testicles, one or both of his testicles either appear to be missing or cannot be felt in the scrotum. If both testicles are undescended, the scrotum will look unusually small and flat. If only one testicle is affected, the scrotum may look lopsided. […] Undescended testicles can increase the risk of infertility. Normally, when the testicles are in the scrotum, theyre about three to five degrees cooler than they would be if they remained inside the body’s abdominal cavity. The warmer temperatures inside the body may impair the development of the testicles and may affect the production of healthy sperm when the boy is older. […] Undescended testicles may increase the risk of infertility, especially if both testicles are affected. However, boys who have one undescended testicle tend to father children at the same rate as those who are not affected by the condition at all.
- #7 Undescended Testicle: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatmenthttps://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/what-is-an-undescended-testicle
The main sign: You cant see or feel the testicle in the scrotum. When both are undescended, the scrotum looks flat and smaller than youd expect it to be. […] An undescended testicle is related to a number of conditions: […] Because sperm need to be a little cooler than the rest of the body, an undescended testicle can cause fertility issues. This is more of a problem when both are lodged in the groin. Early treatment can make a big difference. […] Very often, the testicle moves into place within a few months. At first, youll want to wait and see how things go with regular check-ups. If it doesnt drop into the scrotum by 6 months, your doctor will likely suggest surgery. […] Surgery is the most common treatment, and it almost always works. Its usually done when the baby is 6-12 months old to get the most benefit. Early treatment can lower the chances that your boy will have problems with fertility later in life.
- #8 Cryptorchidism – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470270/
Cryptorchidism, the most prevalent congenital condition involving male genitalia, is characterized by the absence of at least one testicle from the scrotum; this often manifests unilaterally or bilaterally, with a higher frequency of involvement observed in the right testicle. Approximately 3% of full-term and 30% of premature male infants are born with undescended testicles, necessitating a nuanced understanding among healthcare professionals. Untreated cryptorchidism can lead to potential long-term complications such as fertility issues, testicular cancer, testicular torsion, inguinal hernias, and psychological impacts. Therefore, cryptorchidism poses significant challenges in diagnosis and management. […] If the testis has not descended by 6 months, surgical correction through orchiopexy is recommended to minimize risks and potential complications.
- #9 Cryptorchidism – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470270/
Approximately 20% to 30% of undescended testes are nonpalpable. […] Spontaneous descent is unlikely if the testis has not descended by 6 months, and surgical correction should be considered. […] Undescended testes can lead to potential long-term complications, including decreased fertility (particularly true in cases affecting both testicles), an increased risk of testicular germ cell tumors (with an overall risk of less than 1%), testicular torsion, inguinal hernias, and psychological issues if left untreated. Approximately 10% to 30% of individuals with unilateral undescended testis may experience infertility, with the risk escalating from 35% to 65% or higher for those with bilateral disease. If bilateral cryptorchid testes are left untreated, the infertility rate can exceed 90%. […] Cryptorchidism is associated with male infertility in adulthood, primarily due to poor semen quality, which can be linked to compromised Sertoli cell function and its impact on Leydig cell function.
- #10 Undescended Testes (Testicles; also Cryptorchidism) | Lurie Children’shttps://www.luriechildrens.org/en/specialties-conditions/undescended-testes-testicles-also-cryptorchidism/
Finding an empty scrotum and a lump in the groin is generally a clear sign of an UDT. The undescended testis is located in the groin in approximately 80% of cases but can also be found within the abdominal cavity or in another location. If located in the abdominal cavity, the testicle may not be able to be felt. 10% of cases involve both testes. […] Testicles that develop outside of the scrotum are at risk for abnormal development. With abnormal development, there is a risk of decreased testicular function which can lead to infertility (difficulty having babies). Boys with UDT are also at increased risk for malignancy, especially if the UDT is not corrected. Correction of UDT prior to puberty decreases these risks. […] In most cases, the procedure has excellent results. Fertility rate after surgery for a single UDT is around 90%. This rate of successful fertility in lower in children with an UDT on both sides (~80%) The risk of testicular malignancy in patients with a history of UDT is five to 10 times greater than the general population with descended testes. The risk is greater for UDT on both sides and for those with intra-abdominal testes. Correction of the UDT prior to puberty helps to decrease the risk of cancer.
- #11 Undescended testicle // Middlesex Healthhttps://middlesexhealth.org/learning-center/diseases-and-conditions/undescended-testicle
Not seeing or feeling a testicle in the scrotum is the main symptom of an undescended testicle. […] An undescended testicle often is found during an exam done shortly after birth. If the testicle hasn’t moved into the scrotum by 3 to 4 months of age, the condition likely won’t correct itself. […] Treating an undescended testicle when your child is still a baby might lower the risk of health problems later in life. These include cancer of the testicles and not being able to get a partner pregnant, also called infertility. […] Older boys from infants to preteens who have descended testicles at birth might appear to be missing a testicle later. This might be a symptom of a retractile testicle, which moves back and forth between the scrotum and the groin. […] The risk is greater in men who’ve had undescended testicles located in the stomach area than in men who’ve had undescended testicles in the groin. The risk also is higher when both testicles are affected.
- #12https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/undescended-testicles/
Undescended testicles are a common childhood condition where a boy’s testicles are not in their usual place in the scrotum. […] In most cases no treatment is necessary, as the testicles will usually move down into the scrotum naturally during the first 3 to 6 months of life. […] But around 1 in 100 boys has testicles that stay undescended unless treated. […] Undescended testicles aren’t painful and your child isn’t at risk of any immediate health problems, but they should be monitored by a doctor in case treatment is needed later on. […] If the testicles haven’t descended by 6 months, they’re very unlikely to do so and treatment will usually be recommended. […] This is because boys with untreated undescended testicles can have fertility problems (infertility) in later life and an increased risk of developing testicular cancer. […] Surgery is ideally carried out before 12 months of age. If undescended testicles are treated at an early age, the risk of fertility problems and testicular cancer can be reduced.
- #13 Signs of cryptorchidism/undescended testicles | Adahttps://ada.com/conditions/cryptorchidism/
Cryptorchidism is also known as undescended testicles (UDT), or undescended testes, and is usually medically defined as a condition in which a testis is not in the scrotum and doesnt descend into the scrotum by the time the baby is four months old. […] Cryptorchidism is not painful for the infant, and in eight out of ten cases it resolves without medical intervention. Most cases of cryptorchidism are diagnosed during the routine checks that the baby undergoes at birth. The others are usually diagnosed during infancy, childhood or early adolescence. […] In approximately 80 percent of cases of cryptorchidism, one or both scrotal sacs are empty at birth. In most cases where the testes have not descended by the time the baby is born, they will have descended by the age of three months, due a postnatal surge in testosterone levels. However, if they have not done so by the time the baby is six months old, it is unlikely that they will do so on their own.
- #14 Undescended Testes in Children | Cedars-Sinaihttps://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions—pediatrics/u/undescended-testes-in-children.html
Undescended testes means that 1 or both of the male testes have not passed down (descended) into the scrotal sac. This is a condition seen in some newborn baby boys. Most children don’t have symptoms when they have an undescended testicle. […] Symptoms can be a bit different in each child. The most common sign is when a healthcare provider cant feel the testes during an exam. […] In many cases, the testes descend on their own into the scrotum by age 3 months. In most cases, the testes pass down by age 6 months without any treatment. […] If testes dont descend, this can cause problems, such as: Infertility. This is most common when both testes dont descend. Risk for testicular cancer. This risk increases greatly by age 30 or 40. […] Call the healthcare provider if your baby has no sign of testes in his scrotal sac.
- #15https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/undescended-testicles/
Undescended testicles are a common childhood condition where a boy’s testicles are not in their usual place in the scrotum. […] In most cases no treatment is necessary, as the testicles will usually move down into the scrotum naturally during the first 3 to 6 months of life. […] But around 1 in 100 boys has testicles that stay undescended unless treated. […] Undescended testicles aren’t painful and your child isn’t at risk of any immediate health problems, but they should be monitored by a doctor in case treatment is needed later on. […] If the testicles haven’t descended by 6 months, they’re very unlikely to do so and treatment will usually be recommended. […] This is because boys with untreated undescended testicles can have fertility problems (infertility) in later life and an increased risk of developing testicular cancer. […] Surgery is ideally carried out before 12 months of age. If undescended testicles are treated at an early age, the risk of fertility problems and testicular cancer can be reduced.
- #16https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/undescended-testicles/treatment/
Undescended testicles will usually move down into the scrotum naturally by the time your child is 3 to 6 months old. […] If the testicles don’t descend by 6 months, it’s very unlikely they will without treatment. […] Your child may feel a bit unwell for the first 24 hours after surgery as a result of the anaesthetic. This is nothing to worry about. […] Be alert for any signs that the site of the surgery has become infected. […] If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, contact your GP as soon as possible for advice. […] The success rate for treating palpable testicles located near the scrotum is estimated to be higher than 90%. […] The operation is slightly less successful in treating impalpable testicles located in the abdomen. […] The main risk is loss (atrophy) of the testicle.
- #17 Undescended testeshttps://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/undescended_testes/
Testes (testicles) are male sex glands. They produce sperm and hormones for sexual reproduction. The testes are usually situated in the scrotum, but sometimes one or both of the testes do not move down into the scrotum once they develop. This is called undescended testes, and is also known as cryptorchidism. […] The main sign of undescended testes is one testis (a single testicle) or both testes missing from the scrotum. Undescended testes will not cause your child any problems with urination, and will not cause any pain, unless the cord attached to the testis (spermatic cord) becomes twisted. […] If your baby is born with undescended testes, this will be picked up by your Maternal and Child Health Nurse or your doctor shortly after birth. Your baby’s condition will be monitored. […] If your baby’s testes were in the scrotum at birth, and one or both of them disappears from the scrotum, see your GP. You will be referred to a paediatrician or paediatric surgeon. It is very important that the testes be brought down to the scrotum.
- #18 The Undescended Testicle: Diagnosis and Management | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/1101/p2037.html/1000
Early diagnosis and management of the undescended testicle are needed to preserve fertility and improve early detection of testicular malignancy. […] Observation is not recommended beyond one year of age because it delays treatment, lowers the rate of surgical success and probably impairs spermatogenesis. […] By six months of age, patients with undescended testicles should be evaluated by a pediatric urologist or other qualified subspecialist who can assist with diagnosis and treatment. […] Therapy for an undescended testicle should begin between six months and two years of age and may consist of hormone or surgical treatment. […] The most common problems associated with undescended testicles are testicular neoplasm, subfertility, testicular torsion and inguinal hernia. […] As a group, men who have had an undescended testicle have lower sperm counts, poorer quality sperm and lower fertility rates than men whose testicles descended normally.
- #19 Undescended testicle – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/undescended-testicle/symptoms-causes/syc-20351995
Not seeing or feeling a testicle in the scrotum is the main symptom of an undescended testicle. […] An undescended testicle often is found during an exam done shortly after birth. If your baby has an undescended testicle, ask how often exams will need to be done. If the testicle hasn’t moved into the scrotum by 3 to 4 months of age, the condition likely won’t correct itself. […] Older boys from infants to preteens who have descended testicles at birth might appear to be missing a testicle later. This might be a symptom of: […] A retractile testicle, which moves back and forth between the scrotum and the groin. The testicle might be easily guided by hand into the scrotum during a physical exam. A retractile testicle is due to a muscle reflex in the scrotum. […] An ascending testicle, which has returned to the groin. The testicle can’t be easily guided by hand into the scrotum. Another name for this is an acquired undescended testicle.
- #20 Undescended testicles | Better Health Channelhttps://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/undescended-testicles
A boy with undescended testicles will have an empty scrotum on one or both sides. The condition is painless, and urination is not affected. […] Undescended testicles are linked to a range of health problems and conditions, including hernia, testicular cancer and infertility. […] If the testicle is still undescended at three months of age the baby needs to see a paediatric surgeon. […] Undescended testicles should not be confused with retractile or retractable testicles. […] Undescended testicles are diagnosed at three months of age if the testicle has failed to descend into the scrotum by that time. […] Surgery is the best treatment for undescended testicles. […] Research suggests that future sperm quality in the affected testicle is compromised if the condition is corrected after the child is two years old. […] About 10 per cent of males who undergo surgical correction experience reduced fertility later in life. […] The risk of testicular cancer is five to 10 times higher for males with undescended testicles than for the general male population.
- #21 Retractile testicle – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/retractile-testicle/symptoms-causes/syc-20377197
Symptoms of a retractile testicle include: The testicle may be moved by hand from the groin into the scrotum and won’t immediately retreat to the groin. The testicle might spontaneously appear in the scrotum and remain there for a time. The testicle might spontaneously disappear again for a time. […] Retractile testicle is different from undescended testicle (cryptorchidism). An undescended testicle is one that never entered the scrotum. […] Retractile testicles are generally not associated with complications, aside from a greater risk of the testicle becoming an ascending testicle.
- #22 Retractile testicle – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/retractile-testicle/symptoms-causes/syc-20377197
Symptoms of a retractile testicle include: The testicle may be moved by hand from the groin into the scrotum and won’t immediately retreat to the groin. The testicle might spontaneously appear in the scrotum and remain there for a time. The testicle might spontaneously disappear again for a time. […] Retractile testicle is different from undescended testicle (cryptorchidism). An undescended testicle is one that never entered the scrotum. […] Retractile testicles are generally not associated with complications, aside from a greater risk of the testicle becoming an ascending testicle.
- #23 Undescended testicle – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/undescended-testicle/symptoms-causes/syc-20351995
Not seeing or feeling a testicle in the scrotum is the main symptom of an undescended testicle. […] An undescended testicle often is found during an exam done shortly after birth. If your baby has an undescended testicle, ask how often exams will need to be done. If the testicle hasn’t moved into the scrotum by 3 to 4 months of age, the condition likely won’t correct itself. […] Older boys from infants to preteens who have descended testicles at birth might appear to be missing a testicle later. This might be a symptom of: […] A retractile testicle, which moves back and forth between the scrotum and the groin. The testicle might be easily guided by hand into the scrotum during a physical exam. A retractile testicle is due to a muscle reflex in the scrotum. […] An ascending testicle, which has returned to the groin. The testicle can’t be easily guided by hand into the scrotum. Another name for this is an acquired undescended testicle.
- #24 Undescended Testicle | Texas Children’shttps://www.texaschildrens.org/content/conditions/undescended-testicle
Cyptrorchidism (also known as undescended testicle) occurs when 1 or both testicles fail to move into the scrotum before birth. It occurs in approximately: 10% of premature infants, 3% of full-term infants, 0.8% of boys at 6 months of age, 0.8% of boys during puberty. […] Problems associated with undescended testicles include: inguinal hernia, risk of infertility, tumor and testicular torsion. […] Diagnosis is made solely by physical exam. The doctor will observe the shape and appearance of the scrotum, then feel or press with his hands to determine whether the testcle is palpable or nonpalpable and where it is located. […] No intervention is needed for retractile testicles. True undescended testicles diagnosed after 6 months of age need to be corrected with surgery or hormonal injections.
- #25 Undescended testicle – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/undescended-testicle/symptoms-causes/syc-20351995
Not seeing or feeling a testicle in the scrotum is the main symptom of an undescended testicle. […] An undescended testicle often is found during an exam done shortly after birth. If your baby has an undescended testicle, ask how often exams will need to be done. If the testicle hasn’t moved into the scrotum by 3 to 4 months of age, the condition likely won’t correct itself. […] Older boys from infants to preteens who have descended testicles at birth might appear to be missing a testicle later. This might be a symptom of: […] A retractile testicle, which moves back and forth between the scrotum and the groin. The testicle might be easily guided by hand into the scrotum during a physical exam. A retractile testicle is due to a muscle reflex in the scrotum. […] An ascending testicle, which has returned to the groin. The testicle can’t be easily guided by hand into the scrotum. Another name for this is an acquired undescended testicle.
- #26 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism): Causes & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17594-undescended-testicles
The main symptom of undescended testicles is the absence of a testicle in one or both sides of the scrotum. There are usually no other symptoms. Undescended testicles dont cause pain or affect your babys ability to urinate (pee). […] Without treatment, undescended testicles can be serious. They can lower your childs testosterone levels and affect their sperm health. With or without treatment, your child may also have a slightly increased risk of developing testicular cancer. But earlier treatment decreases this increased risk. […] If testicles dont drop into the scrotum, they may not function properly or produce healthy sperm. They can cause infertility later in life. […] Surgery to fix undescended testicles has a high success rate about 98% effective. In most cases, the testicles develop normally in the scrotum and produce healthy sperm later in life.
- #27 The Undescended Testicle: Diagnosis and Management | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/1101/p2037.html/1000
Early diagnosis and management of the undescended testicle are needed to preserve fertility and improve early detection of testicular malignancy. […] Observation is not recommended beyond one year of age because it delays treatment, lowers the rate of surgical success and probably impairs spermatogenesis. […] By six months of age, patients with undescended testicles should be evaluated by a pediatric urologist or other qualified subspecialist who can assist with diagnosis and treatment. […] Therapy for an undescended testicle should begin between six months and two years of age and may consist of hormone or surgical treatment. […] The most common problems associated with undescended testicles are testicular neoplasm, subfertility, testicular torsion and inguinal hernia. […] As a group, men who have had an undescended testicle have lower sperm counts, poorer quality sperm and lower fertility rates than men whose testicles descended normally.
- #28 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism) | Boston Children’s Hospitalhttps://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/undescended-testes-cryptorchidism
In a baby affected by undescended testicles, one or both of his testicles either appear to be missing or cannot be felt in the scrotum. If both testicles are undescended, the scrotum will look unusually small and flat. If only one testicle is affected, the scrotum may look lopsided. […] Undescended testicles can increase the risk of infertility. Normally, when the testicles are in the scrotum, theyre about three to five degrees cooler than they would be if they remained inside the body’s abdominal cavity. The warmer temperatures inside the body may impair the development of the testicles and may affect the production of healthy sperm when the boy is older. […] Undescended testicles may increase the risk of infertility, especially if both testicles are affected. However, boys who have one undescended testicle tend to father children at the same rate as those who are not affected by the condition at all.
- #29 Undescended Testicle: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatmenthttps://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/what-is-an-undescended-testicle
The main sign: You cant see or feel the testicle in the scrotum. When both are undescended, the scrotum looks flat and smaller than youd expect it to be. […] An undescended testicle is related to a number of conditions: […] Because sperm need to be a little cooler than the rest of the body, an undescended testicle can cause fertility issues. This is more of a problem when both are lodged in the groin. Early treatment can make a big difference. […] Very often, the testicle moves into place within a few months. At first, youll want to wait and see how things go with regular check-ups. If it doesnt drop into the scrotum by 6 months, your doctor will likely suggest surgery. […] Surgery is the most common treatment, and it almost always works. Its usually done when the baby is 6-12 months old to get the most benefit. Early treatment can lower the chances that your boy will have problems with fertility later in life.
- #30 Cryptorchidism – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryptorchidism
Many men who were born with undescended testes have reduced fertility, even after orchiopexy in infancy. The reduction with unilateral cryptorchidism is subtle, with a reported infertility rate of about 10%, compared with about 6% reported by the same study for the general population of adult men. The fertility reduction after orchiopexy for bilateral cryptorchidism is more marked, about 38%, or six times that of the general population. […] One of the strongest arguments for early orchiopexy is reducing the risk of testicular cancer. About one in 500 men born with one or both testes undescended develops testicular cancer, roughly a four- to 40-fold increased risk. The peak incidence occurs in the third and fourth decades of life. The risk is higher for intra-abdominal testes and somewhat lower for inguinal testes, but even the normally descended testis of a man whose other testis was undescended has about a 20% higher cancer risk than those of other men.
- #31 Cryptorchidism – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470270/
Approximately 20% to 30% of undescended testes are nonpalpable. […] Spontaneous descent is unlikely if the testis has not descended by 6 months, and surgical correction should be considered. […] Undescended testes can lead to potential long-term complications, including decreased fertility (particularly true in cases affecting both testicles), an increased risk of testicular germ cell tumors (with an overall risk of less than 1%), testicular torsion, inguinal hernias, and psychological issues if left untreated. Approximately 10% to 30% of individuals with unilateral undescended testis may experience infertility, with the risk escalating from 35% to 65% or higher for those with bilateral disease. If bilateral cryptorchid testes are left untreated, the infertility rate can exceed 90%. […] Cryptorchidism is associated with male infertility in adulthood, primarily due to poor semen quality, which can be linked to compromised Sertoli cell function and its impact on Leydig cell function.
- #32 Cryptorchidism – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470270/
Approximately 20% to 30% of undescended testes are nonpalpable. […] Spontaneous descent is unlikely if the testis has not descended by 6 months, and surgical correction should be considered. […] Undescended testes can lead to potential long-term complications, including decreased fertility (particularly true in cases affecting both testicles), an increased risk of testicular germ cell tumors (with an overall risk of less than 1%), testicular torsion, inguinal hernias, and psychological issues if left untreated. Approximately 10% to 30% of individuals with unilateral undescended testis may experience infertility, with the risk escalating from 35% to 65% or higher for those with bilateral disease. If bilateral cryptorchid testes are left untreated, the infertility rate can exceed 90%. […] Cryptorchidism is associated with male infertility in adulthood, primarily due to poor semen quality, which can be linked to compromised Sertoli cell function and its impact on Leydig cell function.
- #33 Testicular conditionshttps://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/S_T/Testicular-conditions
A person with an undescended testicle also has a greater chance of getting testicular cancer in adult life. […] If a testicle does not come into the scrotum in the first 6 months, an operation called an orchidopexy is done to bring it down and fix it in place. This is usually done around 12 months of age. […] Undescended testicles are still operated on if they occur after the age of 2 to reduce the chances of testicular cancer. […] Biopsies of undescended testicles (where a small sample of testicular tissue is examined) have shown that the number of sperm-forming germ cells are normal until the age of 6 months. Germ cell numbers start to reduce in number after that age. […] In the second year of life over one third of undescended testicles will lose all germ cells. This means they will be unable to form sperm. […] The number of germ cells present at the time of an orchidopexy is related to sperm counts later in life.
- #34 Cryptorchidism – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryptorchidism
The risk of malignancy in the undescended testis is 4 to 10 ten times higher than that in the general population and is about one in 80 with a unilateral undescended testis and one in 40 to one in 50 for bilateral undescended testes. The peak age for this tumor is 15-45 years old. The most common tumor developing in an undescended testis is a seminoma. […] Most normal-appearing undescended testes are also normal by microscopic examination, but reduced spermatogonia can be found. The tissue in undescended testes becomes more markedly abnormal („degenerates”) in microscopic appearance between two and four years after birth. Some evidence indicates early orchiopexy reduces this degeneration.
- #35 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism) | Boston Children’s Hospitalhttps://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/undescended-testes-cryptorchidism
Boys who have two undescended testicles a much lower percentage of patients do have a significantly lower fertility rate. A child with undescended testicles is slightly more prone to develop testicular cancer, even after corrective surgery. However, surgery performed before puberty may reduce the risk of developing cancer. […] Boys born with undescended testicles are slightly more prone to testicular cancer, even after corrective surgery, and at a rate of less than 1 percent. However, recent studies suggest that surgical repositioning may help in early detection of a testicular mass prior to the spread of disease, which may reduce the rate of malignancies.
- #36 Cryptorchidism – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryptorchidism
The risk of malignancy in the undescended testis is 4 to 10 ten times higher than that in the general population and is about one in 80 with a unilateral undescended testis and one in 40 to one in 50 for bilateral undescended testes. The peak age for this tumor is 15-45 years old. The most common tumor developing in an undescended testis is a seminoma. […] Most normal-appearing undescended testes are also normal by microscopic examination, but reduced spermatogonia can be found. The tissue in undescended testes becomes more markedly abnormal („degenerates”) in microscopic appearance between two and four years after birth. Some evidence indicates early orchiopexy reduces this degeneration.
- #37 Cryptorchidism – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryptorchidism
Many men who were born with undescended testes have reduced fertility, even after orchiopexy in infancy. The reduction with unilateral cryptorchidism is subtle, with a reported infertility rate of about 10%, compared with about 6% reported by the same study for the general population of adult men. The fertility reduction after orchiopexy for bilateral cryptorchidism is more marked, about 38%, or six times that of the general population. […] One of the strongest arguments for early orchiopexy is reducing the risk of testicular cancer. About one in 500 men born with one or both testes undescended develops testicular cancer, roughly a four- to 40-fold increased risk. The peak incidence occurs in the third and fourth decades of life. The risk is higher for intra-abdominal testes and somewhat lower for inguinal testes, but even the normally descended testis of a man whose other testis was undescended has about a 20% higher cancer risk than those of other men.
- #38 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism) | Boston Children’s Hospitalhttps://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/undescended-testes-cryptorchidism
Boys who have two undescended testicles a much lower percentage of patients do have a significantly lower fertility rate. A child with undescended testicles is slightly more prone to develop testicular cancer, even after corrective surgery. However, surgery performed before puberty may reduce the risk of developing cancer. […] Boys born with undescended testicles are slightly more prone to testicular cancer, even after corrective surgery, and at a rate of less than 1 percent. However, recent studies suggest that surgical repositioning may help in early detection of a testicular mass prior to the spread of disease, which may reduce the rate of malignancies.
- #39 Cryptorchidism – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryptorchidism
Many men who were born with undescended testes have reduced fertility, even after orchiopexy in infancy. The reduction with unilateral cryptorchidism is subtle, with a reported infertility rate of about 10%, compared with about 6% reported by the same study for the general population of adult men. The fertility reduction after orchiopexy for bilateral cryptorchidism is more marked, about 38%, or six times that of the general population. […] One of the strongest arguments for early orchiopexy is reducing the risk of testicular cancer. About one in 500 men born with one or both testes undescended develops testicular cancer, roughly a four- to 40-fold increased risk. The peak incidence occurs in the third and fourth decades of life. The risk is higher for intra-abdominal testes and somewhat lower for inguinal testes, but even the normally descended testis of a man whose other testis was undescended has about a 20% higher cancer risk than those of other men.
- #40 Cryptorchidism – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470270/
The risk of testicular cancer is approximately 3 times higher than that of the general population when orchiopexy is performed before puberty. However, this risk increases to 5 to 6 times higher when orchiopexy is conducted after puberty. […] With proper diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for cryptorchidism is excellent. However, there is a slight increase in the risks of testicular cancer and infertility compared to the general population.
- #41 Cryptorchidism (undescended testicle): Symptoms, risk factors, and cahttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/184604
It is important to perform the procedure before the child is 2 years old because delays may increase the long-term risk of testicular cancer or infertility. […] If a testicle does not descend, its temperature can rise high enough to cause a low sperm count or poor sperm quality. […] Testicular cancer is another complication of an undescended testicle, though the risk is lower than 1 percent. […] Cryptorchidism also increases the risk of testicular torsion. […] If an undescended testicle does not receive treatment soon enough, there is a risk of infertility later in life.
- #42 Undescended testeshttps://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/undescended_testes/
If the testes do not come down, there is a risk of ongoing health issues such as: Torsion the spermatic cord can become twisted and this can cut off the blood supply to the testes. Hernia when a loop of bowel comes into the scrotum. Reduced fertility the body temperature in the abdomen is higher than in the scrotum, and this can affect sperm production in the testes. Risk of testicular cancer this happens in a relatively low number of boys. The risk is usually less than 1 in 100. Poor self-esteem due to having abnormal looking genitals. […] For babies born with undescended testes, the testes may come down by themselves in the first three months after birth, and no treatment is needed. […] If the testes do not come down by themselves, your child will be monitored, and if they are not down after six months, an operation called an orchidopexy is needed. An orchidopexy brings the testis down into its normal location in the scrotum.
- #43 Hernia, Hydrocele & Undescended Testicle – UT Erlanger Urologyhttps://www.uturology.com/conditions-treatments/pediatric-urology/hernia-hydrocele-undescended-testical/
Undescended testicle means it has not dropped down into the scrotum. It affects 3-5% of full term boys and up to 30% of preterm infants. In most cases, an undescended testicle will descend to the normal position within the first 3-6 months. Nearly 1% of full term boys have a testicle that remains undescended at one year of age, which requires treatment. […] Undescended testicles exhibit diminished growth and function. Another risk of an undescended testicle is that it can twist, which can cause damage to or loss of the testicle. Generally, an undescended testicle raises the risk of infertility and testicular cancer later in life. […] The goal of surgery is to place the undescended testicle into the scrotum. If the child’s testicle has not descended by age 6 months, it is unlikely to descend. Surgical treatment for an undescended testicle is usually recommended before age 1, and any companion hernia can be repaired at the same time. Early undescended testicle treatment reduces the risk of future problems. Results from surgery depend on the condition of the testicle. Most often, the testicle develops normally in the scrotum. But if the testicle is abnormal, it may never grow properly. The further the testicle is from the scrotum, the more likely that growth and function are affected.
- #44 Signs of cryptorchidism/undescended testicles | Adahttps://ada.com/conditions/cryptorchidism/
Testicular torsion can occur at any age and is about ten times more common among males with cryptorchidism than it is among those with normally-descended testes. […] Symptoms of testicular torsion differ according to the location of the undescended testis, but can include swelling in the groin (inguinal area), empty scrotal sac on the same side as the swelling, and acute abdomen, a condition of severe abdominal pain. […] If the testis is in the inguinal canal, it is at risk of blunt trauma if the affected person receives a blow in that area. […] During the development of the fetus in the womb, the lining of the abdominal cavity extends into the groin. In some cases, such as some cases of cryptorchidism, the abdominal lining and hernia do not close properly, and part of the small intestine may move into the inguinal canal.
- #45 The Undescended Testicle: Diagnosis and Management | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/1101/p2037.html/1000
The likelihood of subfertility increases with bilateral involvement and increasing age at the time of orchiopexy. […] For this reason, treatment of the undescended testicle is recommended as early as six months of age and should be completed before age two. […] Although there is little solid evidence, the incidence of testicular torsion is thought to be higher in undescended testes than in normal scrotal testes. […] Most true cases of undescended testicles are associated with a patent processus vaginalis. […] A nonpalpable testicle on physical examination should be a clue to the diagnosis, but often the torsion is only diagnosed at the time of abdominal exploration.
- #46 The Undescended Testicle: Diagnosis and Management | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/1101/p2037.html/1000
The likelihood of subfertility increases with bilateral involvement and increasing age at the time of orchiopexy. […] For this reason, treatment of the undescended testicle is recommended as early as six months of age and should be completed before age two. […] Although there is little solid evidence, the incidence of testicular torsion is thought to be higher in undescended testes than in normal scrotal testes. […] Most true cases of undescended testicles are associated with a patent processus vaginalis. […] A nonpalpable testicle on physical examination should be a clue to the diagnosis, but often the torsion is only diagnosed at the time of abdominal exploration.
- #47 Signs of cryptorchidism/undescended testicles | Adahttps://ada.com/conditions/cryptorchidism/
Testicular torsion can occur at any age and is about ten times more common among males with cryptorchidism than it is among those with normally-descended testes. […] Symptoms of testicular torsion differ according to the location of the undescended testis, but can include swelling in the groin (inguinal area), empty scrotal sac on the same side as the swelling, and acute abdomen, a condition of severe abdominal pain. […] If the testis is in the inguinal canal, it is at risk of blunt trauma if the affected person receives a blow in that area. […] During the development of the fetus in the womb, the lining of the abdominal cavity extends into the groin. In some cases, such as some cases of cryptorchidism, the abdominal lining and hernia do not close properly, and part of the small intestine may move into the inguinal canal.
- #48 Undescended testeshttps://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/undescended_testes/
If the testes do not come down, there is a risk of ongoing health issues such as: Torsion the spermatic cord can become twisted and this can cut off the blood supply to the testes. Hernia when a loop of bowel comes into the scrotum. Reduced fertility the body temperature in the abdomen is higher than in the scrotum, and this can affect sperm production in the testes. Risk of testicular cancer this happens in a relatively low number of boys. The risk is usually less than 1 in 100. Poor self-esteem due to having abnormal looking genitals. […] For babies born with undescended testes, the testes may come down by themselves in the first three months after birth, and no treatment is needed. […] If the testes do not come down by themselves, your child will be monitored, and if they are not down after six months, an operation called an orchidopexy is needed. An orchidopexy brings the testis down into its normal location in the scrotum.
- #49https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/genitourinary-tract/Pages/Undescended-Testicles.aspx
In some cases, the undescended testicle may be twisted, in a condition called testicular torsion. As a result, its blood supply may be stopped, causing pain in the inguinal (groin) or scrotal area. If this situation is not corrected promptly, the testicle can be damaged severely and permanently. If your child has an undescended testicle and complains of pain in the groin or scrotal area, call your pediatrician or go to a hospital emergency department immediately.
- #50 Abdominal Pain Associated with an Intra-Abdominal Gonad in an Adulthttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1476126/
A 44-year-old man presented with right lower quadrant pain that had progressed in severity over a 3-month period. […] The typical presenting symptoms of torsion of an undescended testicle are abdominal and inguinal pain that may be intermittent, prolonged, or of sudden onset. […] The nature of this patient’s pain remains unclear. It may have been due to the unfavorable location of the testis. Regardless of the cause, unresolving pain is a clear indication for surgical intervention in patients with cryptorchidism. […] Pain, impalpability of the testicle, and increased risk of cancer and torsion are indications for orchiectomy.
- #51 Undescended Testicle Symptoms and Treatment – Assoc. Prof. A. Kadir Tepelerhttps://www.drtepeler.com/en/undescended-testicle-symptoms-and-treatment/
The risks that this situation may bring may be decreased sperm quality, infertility and cancer. At the same time, inguinal hernia may develop as a low probability. […] Under normal conditions, the testis is expected to descend within 1 year at the latest. However, it is recommended to treat the testicles that do not fall into place during this period. The treatment option is surgery. […] The ideal age for surgery for children with undescended testicles is 6-18 months. As the age of treatment is delayed, the probability of damage to the testis increases. The testicles remaining in the groin may shrink over time and not function.
- #52https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/genitourinary-tract/Pages/Undescended-Testicles.aspx
Typcially, boys with undescended testicles have no symptoms of pain or discomfort. The scrotum may appear small and underdeveloped. If only one testicle is undescended, the scrotum may look asymmetrical (full on one side, empty on the other). You may also notice that the testicles are sometimes in the scrotum and at other times absent (for example, when he is cold or excited). This is a condition known as retractile testicles. […] If your child’s testicle has not come down into the scrotum on its own by 6 months of age, they will likely need treatment. It is relatively rare for undescended testicles to fall into proper position after 6 months of age. So, there is usually little value to waiting. […] Since the chances of the testicle coming down on its own is slim after 6 months old, your child should be referred for treatment once they’ve reached that age. Waiting beyond 2-3 years may hinder the testicle’s ability to grow and function normally. Ideally, orchiopexy should be done within the first 18 months of life.
- #53 Testicular conditionshttps://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/S_T/Testicular-conditions
A person with an undescended testicle also has a greater chance of getting testicular cancer in adult life. […] If a testicle does not come into the scrotum in the first 6 months, an operation called an orchidopexy is done to bring it down and fix it in place. This is usually done around 12 months of age. […] Undescended testicles are still operated on if they occur after the age of 2 to reduce the chances of testicular cancer. […] Biopsies of undescended testicles (where a small sample of testicular tissue is examined) have shown that the number of sperm-forming germ cells are normal until the age of 6 months. Germ cell numbers start to reduce in number after that age. […] In the second year of life over one third of undescended testicles will lose all germ cells. This means they will be unable to form sperm. […] The number of germ cells present at the time of an orchidopexy is related to sperm counts later in life.
- #54https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/undescended-testicles/
Undescended testicles are a common childhood condition where a boy’s testicles are not in their usual place in the scrotum. […] In most cases no treatment is necessary, as the testicles will usually move down into the scrotum naturally during the first 3 to 6 months of life. […] But around 1 in 100 boys has testicles that stay undescended unless treated. […] Undescended testicles aren’t painful and your child isn’t at risk of any immediate health problems, but they should be monitored by a doctor in case treatment is needed later on. […] If the testicles haven’t descended by 6 months, they’re very unlikely to do so and treatment will usually be recommended. […] This is because boys with untreated undescended testicles can have fertility problems (infertility) in later life and an increased risk of developing testicular cancer. […] Surgery is ideally carried out before 12 months of age. If undescended testicles are treated at an early age, the risk of fertility problems and testicular cancer can be reduced.
- #55 Cryptorchidism (undescended testicle): Symptoms, risk factors, and cahttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/184604
It is important to perform the procedure before the child is 2 years old because delays may increase the long-term risk of testicular cancer or infertility. […] If a testicle does not descend, its temperature can rise high enough to cause a low sperm count or poor sperm quality. […] Testicular cancer is another complication of an undescended testicle, though the risk is lower than 1 percent. […] Cryptorchidism also increases the risk of testicular torsion. […] If an undescended testicle does not receive treatment soon enough, there is a risk of infertility later in life.
- #56 Hernia, Hydrocele & Undescended Testicle – UT Erlanger Urologyhttps://www.uturology.com/conditions-treatments/pediatric-urology/hernia-hydrocele-undescended-testical/
Undescended testicle means it has not dropped down into the scrotum. It affects 3-5% of full term boys and up to 30% of preterm infants. In most cases, an undescended testicle will descend to the normal position within the first 3-6 months. Nearly 1% of full term boys have a testicle that remains undescended at one year of age, which requires treatment. […] Undescended testicles exhibit diminished growth and function. Another risk of an undescended testicle is that it can twist, which can cause damage to or loss of the testicle. Generally, an undescended testicle raises the risk of infertility and testicular cancer later in life. […] The goal of surgery is to place the undescended testicle into the scrotum. If the child’s testicle has not descended by age 6 months, it is unlikely to descend. Surgical treatment for an undescended testicle is usually recommended before age 1, and any companion hernia can be repaired at the same time. Early undescended testicle treatment reduces the risk of future problems. Results from surgery depend on the condition of the testicle. Most often, the testicle develops normally in the scrotum. But if the testicle is abnormal, it may never grow properly. The further the testicle is from the scrotum, the more likely that growth and function are affected.
- #57https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/genitourinary-tract/Pages/Undescended-Testicles.aspx
Typcially, boys with undescended testicles have no symptoms of pain or discomfort. The scrotum may appear small and underdeveloped. If only one testicle is undescended, the scrotum may look asymmetrical (full on one side, empty on the other). You may also notice that the testicles are sometimes in the scrotum and at other times absent (for example, when he is cold or excited). This is a condition known as retractile testicles. […] If your child’s testicle has not come down into the scrotum on its own by 6 months of age, they will likely need treatment. It is relatively rare for undescended testicles to fall into proper position after 6 months of age. So, there is usually little value to waiting. […] Since the chances of the testicle coming down on its own is slim after 6 months old, your child should be referred for treatment once they’ve reached that age. Waiting beyond 2-3 years may hinder the testicle’s ability to grow and function normally. Ideally, orchiopexy should be done within the first 18 months of life.
- #58 The Undescended Testicle: Diagnosis and Management | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/1101/p2037.html/1000
The likelihood of subfertility increases with bilateral involvement and increasing age at the time of orchiopexy. […] For this reason, treatment of the undescended testicle is recommended as early as six months of age and should be completed before age two. […] Although there is little solid evidence, the incidence of testicular torsion is thought to be higher in undescended testes than in normal scrotal testes. […] Most true cases of undescended testicles are associated with a patent processus vaginalis. […] A nonpalpable testicle on physical examination should be a clue to the diagnosis, but often the torsion is only diagnosed at the time of abdominal exploration.
- #59 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism): Causes & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17594-undescended-testicles
The main symptom of undescended testicles is the absence of a testicle in one or both sides of the scrotum. There are usually no other symptoms. Undescended testicles dont cause pain or affect your babys ability to urinate (pee). […] Without treatment, undescended testicles can be serious. They can lower your childs testosterone levels and affect their sperm health. With or without treatment, your child may also have a slightly increased risk of developing testicular cancer. But earlier treatment decreases this increased risk. […] If testicles dont drop into the scrotum, they may not function properly or produce healthy sperm. They can cause infertility later in life. […] Surgery to fix undescended testicles has a high success rate about 98% effective. In most cases, the testicles develop normally in the scrotum and produce healthy sperm later in life.
- #60 Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism): Causes & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17594-undescended-testicles
The main symptom of undescended testicles is the absence of a testicle in one or both sides of the scrotum. There are usually no other symptoms. Undescended testicles dont cause pain or affect your babys ability to urinate (pee). […] Without treatment, undescended testicles can be serious. They can lower your childs testosterone levels and affect their sperm health. With or without treatment, your child may also have a slightly increased risk of developing testicular cancer. But earlier treatment decreases this increased risk. […] If testicles dont drop into the scrotum, they may not function properly or produce healthy sperm. They can cause infertility later in life. […] Surgery to fix undescended testicles has a high success rate about 98% effective. In most cases, the testicles develop normally in the scrotum and produce healthy sperm later in life.
- #61 Undescended Testes (Testicles; also Cryptorchidism) | Lurie Children’shttps://www.luriechildrens.org/en/specialties-conditions/undescended-testes-testicles-also-cryptorchidism/
Finding an empty scrotum and a lump in the groin is generally a clear sign of an UDT. The undescended testis is located in the groin in approximately 80% of cases but can also be found within the abdominal cavity or in another location. If located in the abdominal cavity, the testicle may not be able to be felt. 10% of cases involve both testes. […] Testicles that develop outside of the scrotum are at risk for abnormal development. With abnormal development, there is a risk of decreased testicular function which can lead to infertility (difficulty having babies). Boys with UDT are also at increased risk for malignancy, especially if the UDT is not corrected. Correction of UDT prior to puberty decreases these risks. […] In most cases, the procedure has excellent results. Fertility rate after surgery for a single UDT is around 90%. This rate of successful fertility in lower in children with an UDT on both sides (~80%) The risk of testicular malignancy in patients with a history of UDT is five to 10 times greater than the general population with descended testes. The risk is greater for UDT on both sides and for those with intra-abdominal testes. Correction of the UDT prior to puberty helps to decrease the risk of cancer.
- #62 Undescended Testes (Testicles; also Cryptorchidism) | Lurie Children’shttps://www.luriechildrens.org/en/specialties-conditions/undescended-testes-testicles-also-cryptorchidism/
Finding an empty scrotum and a lump in the groin is generally a clear sign of an UDT. The undescended testis is located in the groin in approximately 80% of cases but can also be found within the abdominal cavity or in another location. If located in the abdominal cavity, the testicle may not be able to be felt. 10% of cases involve both testes. […] Testicles that develop outside of the scrotum are at risk for abnormal development. With abnormal development, there is a risk of decreased testicular function which can lead to infertility (difficulty having babies). Boys with UDT are also at increased risk for malignancy, especially if the UDT is not corrected. Correction of UDT prior to puberty decreases these risks. […] In most cases, the procedure has excellent results. Fertility rate after surgery for a single UDT is around 90%. This rate of successful fertility in lower in children with an UDT on both sides (~80%) The risk of testicular malignancy in patients with a history of UDT is five to 10 times greater than the general population with descended testes. The risk is greater for UDT on both sides and for those with intra-abdominal testes. Correction of the UDT prior to puberty helps to decrease the risk of cancer.
- #63 Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) Guide: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Optionshttps://www.drugs.com/health-guide/undescended-testicle-cryptorchidism.html
There is usually only one sign that a boy has an undescended testicle. The scrotum appears underdeveloped or smaller on the affected side. In rare cases, the undescended testicle can become twisted (testicular torsion), causing severe groin pain. If this happens, seek medical attention immediately. […] The majority of undescended testicles descend into the scrotum on their own during the first three to six months of life. If the testicle has not descended by 6 to 9 months of age, it should be evaluated by a specialist. […] The outlook is best if the condition is recognized and corrected before 2 years of age. Orchiopexy may reduce the risk of infertility because normal sperm production requires the cooler temperature found in the scrotum. After treatment, 50% to 65% of males with two undescended testicles are fertile, and 85% with a single undescended testicle are fertile.
- #64 Undescended testeshttps://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/undescended_testes/
An appointment will be made for your child to see their surgeon after the operation. Regular checks may be needed to make sure the testicle remains in the scrotum. Your child will need to learn how to do regular testicular self-examination when they become a teenager. […] Undescended testes is when the testes are not in the scrotum. There may be several reasons for undescended testes. Usually the cause is unknown. An operation is needed if the testes do not move down by themselves by six months of age. This is done to reduce ongoing health issues. The operation is a day procedure and your child will usually go home the same day.
- #65 Undescended Testes and Retractile Testes – Children’s Health Issues – Merck Manual Consumer Versionhttps://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/birth-defects-of-the-urinary-tract-and-genitals/undescended-testes-and-retractile-testes
About 3 of every 100 boys who are born at full term (9 months) have an undescended testis at birth. However, about 30 of every 100 boys born prematurely have an undescended testis. Boys whose family members had undescended testes also are more likely to have the condition. Usually only one testis fails to descend, but in about 10% both testes are affected. […] Undescended testes rarely cause symptoms. However, undescended testes can impair sperm production later in life and increase the risk of testicular cancer. Undescended testes in the abdomen can become twisted (testicular torsion), causing severe pain. Most newborns who have an undescended testis also have an inguinal hernia. […] If the testis has not descended by about 6 months of age in full-term infants and by 1 year of age in premature infants, surgery is needed. Depending on the location of the testis, it may be brought down into the scrotum via a surgical procedure through an open incision or by laparoscopy (in which doctors look inside the abdominal cavity using an endoscope). If the infant has an inguinal hernia, that is also repaired. […] Because children who have had undescended testes are at an increased risk of developing testicular cancer, after puberty, all males should examine their testes for lumps every month.
- #66 Undescended testeshttps://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/undescended_testes/
An appointment will be made for your child to see their surgeon after the operation. Regular checks may be needed to make sure the testicle remains in the scrotum. Your child will need to learn how to do regular testicular self-examination when they become a teenager. […] Undescended testes is when the testes are not in the scrotum. There may be several reasons for undescended testes. Usually the cause is unknown. An operation is needed if the testes do not move down by themselves by six months of age. This is done to reduce ongoing health issues. The operation is a day procedure and your child will usually go home the same day.
- #67 Undescended Testes and Retractile Testes – Children’s Health Issues – Merck Manual Consumer Versionhttps://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/birth-defects-of-the-urinary-tract-and-genitals/undescended-testes-and-retractile-testes
About 3 of every 100 boys who are born at full term (9 months) have an undescended testis at birth. However, about 30 of every 100 boys born prematurely have an undescended testis. Boys whose family members had undescended testes also are more likely to have the condition. Usually only one testis fails to descend, but in about 10% both testes are affected. […] Undescended testes rarely cause symptoms. However, undescended testes can impair sperm production later in life and increase the risk of testicular cancer. Undescended testes in the abdomen can become twisted (testicular torsion), causing severe pain. Most newborns who have an undescended testis also have an inguinal hernia. […] If the testis has not descended by about 6 months of age in full-term infants and by 1 year of age in premature infants, surgery is needed. Depending on the location of the testis, it may be brought down into the scrotum via a surgical procedure through an open incision or by laparoscopy (in which doctors look inside the abdominal cavity using an endoscope). If the infant has an inguinal hernia, that is also repaired. […] Because children who have had undescended testes are at an increased risk of developing testicular cancer, after puberty, all males should examine their testes for lumps every month.
- #68 Undescended testicles | Great Ormond Street Hospitalhttps://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/conditions-we-treat/undescended-testicles/
Usually, there will not be any symptoms at all, other than not being able to feel the testicles in the scrotum. The child will not be in pain, and the undescended testicles will not interfere with any bodily function. […] However, if one of the testicles becomes twisted (testicular torsion), this will be painful, either in the groin area or the abdomen, depending on the location of the testicle at the time. […] The amount of sperm and fertility levels seem lower in men who have had undescended testicles, and even lower if they were not treated early in childhood. This is because the testicles need to be a few degrees cooler than the rest of the body to produce sperm. […] Children with undescended testicle have a higher risk of testicular cancer in the future. It is more easy to check the testicles if they are in the scrotum. If the testicles remain in the abdomen or high up in the groin, this also increases the risk of testicular torsion. […] When the undescended testicles are treated in early childhood, the outlook is good. The child will have normal fertility levels unless there were problems with the testicles themselves.
- #69 Undescended testicles | Great Ormond Street Hospitalhttps://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/conditions-we-treat/undescended-testicles/
Usually, there will not be any symptoms at all, other than not being able to feel the testicles in the scrotum. The child will not be in pain, and the undescended testicles will not interfere with any bodily function. […] However, if one of the testicles becomes twisted (testicular torsion), this will be painful, either in the groin area or the abdomen, depending on the location of the testicle at the time. […] The amount of sperm and fertility levels seem lower in men who have had undescended testicles, and even lower if they were not treated early in childhood. This is because the testicles need to be a few degrees cooler than the rest of the body to produce sperm. […] Children with undescended testicle have a higher risk of testicular cancer in the future. It is more easy to check the testicles if they are in the scrotum. If the testicles remain in the abdomen or high up in the groin, this also increases the risk of testicular torsion. […] When the undescended testicles are treated in early childhood, the outlook is good. The child will have normal fertility levels unless there were problems with the testicles themselves.
- #70https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/undescended-testicles/
Undescended testicles are a common childhood condition where a boy’s testicles are not in their usual place in the scrotum. […] In most cases no treatment is necessary, as the testicles will usually move down into the scrotum naturally during the first 3 to 6 months of life. […] But around 1 in 100 boys has testicles that stay undescended unless treated. […] Undescended testicles aren’t painful and your child isn’t at risk of any immediate health problems, but they should be monitored by a doctor in case treatment is needed later on. […] If the testicles haven’t descended by 6 months, they’re very unlikely to do so and treatment will usually be recommended. […] This is because boys with untreated undescended testicles can have fertility problems (infertility) in later life and an increased risk of developing testicular cancer. […] Surgery is ideally carried out before 12 months of age. If undescended testicles are treated at an early age, the risk of fertility problems and testicular cancer can be reduced.