Cryptorchidism

Cryptorchidism diagnosis is made on physical exam when one or both testes are not present within the dependent portion of the scrotal sac.

Approximately 70% of cryptorchid testes are palpable within the upper portion of the scrotum or inguinal canal, whereas the other 30% are not palpable, suggesting either an intra-abdominal location, testicular nubbin, or anorchia.

Referral to a specialist should be made by 6 months corrected gestational age and surgical correction should be performed within the next year. Testes that remain undescended by 6 months are unlikely to descend spontaneously.

Boys with newly acquired (ascended) testicles should be referred to a surgical specialist.

Delayed or lack of treatment has been associated with a higher incidence of testicular cancer and reduced fertility from the affected testis.

Patients with bilateral cryptorchidism should be referred immediately for an evaluation with karyotype and biochemical workup for a difference of sex development (DSD).

Cryptorchidism, or undescended testis, is when one or both testes are not present within the dependent portion of the scrotal sac.