What are undescended testes?
Definition Also known as cryptorchidism, undescended testes is a congenital condition characterized by testicles that do not extend to the scrotum. Description In the fetus, the testes are in the abdomen. As development progresses they migrate downward through the groin and into the scrotum. This event takes place late in fetal development, during the eighth month of gestation. Thirty percent of premature boys have testes that have not yet made the full descent. Only 3–4% of full-term baby boys have undescended testes, and half of those complete the journey by the age of three months. Eighty percent of all undescended testes cases naturally correct themselves during the first year of life. Undescended testes that are not corrected can lead to sterility and an increased risk of testicular cancer. Causes and symptoms The cause of undescended testes is presently unknown, however its symptoms are quite apparent. One or all of the testicles can be undescended, therefore the testicles appear
Undescended Testes or Cryptorchidism is a condition that occurs in newborn male babies wherein, the testicles do not descend from the abdomen (where they develop initially when the baby is inside the womb) to the scrotal sac, as they normally should, approximately after their seventh month from conception, and before they are born. Undescended testis or Cryptorchidism is usually diagnosed during the examination of the newborn baby. Early recognition of the condition, identification of associated syndromes if present, proper diagnostic evaluation, and timely referral for urological surgical therapy, are all very important steps for preventing adverse consequences that this condition can cause. Consequences of Cryptorchidism The rationale for treating undescended testis is based on preventing potential adverse health problems that may occur. The most common problems associated with undescended testicles are testicular neoplasm, problems with fertility, testicular torsion and inguinal her
