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UNDESCENDED TESTES
Definition:
The testes develop in the abdomen and towards end of pregnancy descend into the scrotum (picture). In certain cases one or both testicles do not descended from the pelvis into their normal position in the scrotum.
It affects about 3% of full-term newborn males and 30% of premature newborn males. In most cases they descend spontaneously without treatment by age 1.
Signs & Symptons
- Scrotum appears undeveloped on one or both sides.
- Testicle can’t be felt in its normal position in the scrotum.
Causes
Unknown.
Diagnostic Measures
- Observation of scrotum.
- Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
- The advent of UltraSonoGraphy (USG) has made localization of testes very easy. If the testes don’t descend by 1-2 yrs, surgery to bring them down and fix them should be considered. Waiting for too long may result in a child with poor growth and may affect his fertlity
Possible Complications
- Increased likelihood of testicular cancer, if not brought down.
- Sterility, if testes are not repositioned before puberty.
- If the problem is not corrected, psychological problems associated with an altered male self-image,
- If testes are not present, lack of normal sexual development,.
Surgical Measures
Surgery is the only treatment for those in whom there is no spontaneous descent. Surgery ideally should be performed at about age 3-5 and MUST be performed prior to puberty to preserve reproductive function.
Contact your Doctor
As soon as you identify this abnormality.