Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)

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Definition

During development of a male fetus, the testes begin growth in the abdomen and migrate into the scrotum as gestation progresses. The descent usually occurs during the seventh and eighth months of gestation.

Males whose testes do not naturally complete the descent — so that one or both testicles fail to move into the scrotum — have a condition known as undescended testicle, or cryptorchidism.

An undescended testicle often resolves on its own. In cases that don't self-correct, surgery may be recommended to move and anchor the testicle into its proper position in the scrotum. The procedure is usually done between the baby's first and second years. Hormonal therapy to induce testicular descent also may be an option.

Uncorrected cases of undescended testicle may cause future fertility problems, such as decreased sperm production. Men who have had an undescended testicle — surgically corrected or not — have an increased risk of testicular cancer.

Undescended testicle is more common in premature infants — affecting up to 30 percent at birth — as they are more likely to be born before the testicles have descended. In full-term babies the incidence is 3 percent to 5 percent at birth.

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Symptoms