What is Cryptorchidism? Learn it’s symptoms and causes

Cryptorchidism, also known as undescended testicles, is a condition in which one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum before birth. If you are wondering ‘what is Cryptorchidism’, it is one of the most common conditions affecting newborn boys. Normally, the testicles develop inside the abdomen during pregnancy and descend into the scrotum before delivery. In some cases, this process does not happen properly, and treatment may be needed if the testicles do not descend naturally within the first few months of life.  

What is Cryptorchidism?

Undescended testicles, medically known as cryptorchidism, occur when one or both testicles do not move into the scrotum as expected before birth. During pregnancy, the testicles develop inside the baby’s abdomen and usually descend into the scrotum before delivery. The scrotum is the small skin pouch located below the penis that normally contains the testicles. In some babies, this natural process is delayed or does not happen properly.

Although the condition is common in newborn boys, especially in premature babies, it should not be ignored. If the testicles remain undescended for a long time, it may affect hormone production, fertility, and sperm development later in life. There is also a slightly increased risk of testicular cancer, though early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce these risks significantly.

Undescended testicles are seen in approximately 3% of full-term newborns and are more frequently found in premature infants. In many cases, the testicles descend naturally within the first few months after birth without the need for treatment.

What are the symptoms and causes?

One of the main signs of undescended testicles is that one or both testicles are not present in the scrotum. Other symptoms are usually not seen, and the condition generally does not cause pain or affect a baby’s ability to urinate.

The exact reason why some babies are born with undescended testicles is still unclear. Medical experts believe that, in some cases, lower testosterone levels during fetal development may affect the normal descent of the testicles before birth. There is no evidence that anything during pregnancy directly causes this condition.

Although undescended testicles can affect any male baby, they are more commonly seen in premature babies who have not completed the full term of development before birth.

What are the complications of Cryptorchidism?

Babies born with cryptorchidism may have a greater risk of developing certain health conditions later in life. These complications can include testicular cancer, which is the most common cancer affecting males between the ages of 15 and 35.

Another possible complication is testicular torsion, a painful condition in which the spermatic cord twists and blocks blood flow to the testicle. Without immediate treatment, the affected testicle may become damaged or die.

Undescended testicles may also increase the risk of an inguinal hernia, where part of an organ pushes through weak muscle or tissue near the groin area. In some cases, the condition can lead to hypogonadism, where the testicles do not produce enough testosterone.

How to Diagnose Cryptorchidism?

Undescended testicles are commonly diagnosed during a physical examination at birth or within the first few weeks of life. During the examination, the healthcare provider checks whether both testicles are present in the scrotum. If one or both testicles cannot be felt, the baby may have undescended or impalpable testicles.

In some cases, the healthcare provider may refer your child to a pediatric urologist, a specialist who treats urinary and reproductive conditions in children. Additional tests may sometimes be recommended to help locate the testicles.

• A physical examination is usually enough to identify undescended testicles.
• If the testicles cannot be felt in the scrotum, they may be described as impalpable.
• A pediatric urologist may be consulted for further evaluation and treatment.
• Imaging tests, such as a pelvic ultrasound, may occasionally be used to locate the testicles.
• Ultrasound scans are not always necessary for diagnosis.

How to Treat Cryptorchidism

Cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles, is usually treated with a surgical procedure called orchiopexy. This is considered the standard and most effective treatment for correcting undescended testicles. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the groin area to locate the undescended testicle and carefully moves it into the scrotum. Another small incision is made in the scrotum to create a pocket that helps keep the testicle in place. In some cases, if the testicle is found to be non-functional, it may need to be removed.

If the testicles have not descended naturally by the time a child is six months old, parents should consult a healthcare provider about treatment options. Specialists generally recommend performing orchiopexy between 12 and 24 months of age for the best long-term outcomes.

Early treatment is important because untreated cryptorchidism can affect the normal function of the testicles. If the testicles remain outside the scrotum for too long, they may not produce healthy sperm properly, which can increase the risk of infertility later in life.

Conclusion 

Cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles, is a common condition in newborn boys, especially in premature babies. Although some cases resolve naturally within the first few months of life, early diagnosis and treatment are important to reduce the risk of complications such as infertility, hormone issues, and testicular cancer. With timely medical care and appropriate treatment, most children can achieve healthy long-term outcomes.

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