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Undescended Testes

FACTS:

• This is a condition in newborns when one or both of the male testes have not passed down into the scrotal sac.
  
• Undescended testes occurs in males in approximately 4.5% of all male infants.
  
• It is more common in premature male infants.  Up to 30% of premature males will have an undescended testis.
  
• Undescended testes may occur for several reason including prematurity, hormonal disorders, spina bifida, retractile testes or testicular absence.
  
• Undescended testes is diagnosed by the inability to feel testes on examination.

TREATMENT:

• The condition of undescended testes usually resolves without any intervention by the time the infant is six months old.
  
• The resolution occurs when the testes descend and remain in the scrotal sac.
  
• If by six months of age, patients with undescended testicles should be evaluated by a pediatric urologist or other qualified subspecialist who can assist with diagnosis and treatment.
  

COMPLICATIONS:

• Infertility is possible if both testes are affected and not corrected.
  
• There is a considerable increased risk of cancer if uncorrected by age 30 to 40 years.
• Increased risk of hernia formation if uncorrected.