Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)

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Causes

By Mayo Clinic staff

The exact cause of an undescended testicle isn't known. A combination of genetics, maternal health and other environmental factors might disrupt the hormones, physical changes and nerve activity that influence the development of the testicles.

Risk factors Symptoms
References
  1. Ashley RA, et al. Cryptorchidism: Pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. Urologic Clinics of North America. 2010;37:183.
  2. Cooper CS, et al. Undescended testes (cryptorchidism) in children and adolescents. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Feb. 15, 2013.
  3. Kliegman RM, et al. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2011. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/208746819-6/0/1608/0.html. Accessed Feb. 15, 2013.
  4. Lao OB, et al. Pediatric inguinal hernias, hydroceles, and undescended testicles. Surgical Clinics of North America. 2012;92:487.
  5. Nippoldt TB (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 28, 2013.
  6. Granberg CF (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 28, 2013.
DS00845 April 11, 2013

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