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Key Points About Undescended Testicle in Infants:

Question: Is it a concern if a newborn male lacks a testicle at birth? A urologist outlines essential facts about undescended testicles.

Essential Facts When Your Child's Testicle hasn't Descended Yet
Essential Facts When Your Child's Testicle hasn't Descended Yet

Key Points About Undescended Testicle in Infants:

In the world of paediatric health, Cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles, is a common congenital condition that affects newborn boys. This condition occurs when one or both testicles fail to descend from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum before birth or shortly after.

The exact cause of Cryptorchidism remains a mystery, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development. These include genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, premature birth, and environmental factors such as exposure to certain chemicals, although the latter is not conclusively proven.

Diagnosis of Cryptorchidism is typically made through a physical examination by healthcare providers. They check for the presence of the testicles in the scrotum. If the testicles are not palpable, further diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or laparoscopy may be conducted to locate them.

Treatment for Cryptorchidism usually involves surgical intervention, with the most common procedure being orchiopexy. This surgery involves moving the undescended testicle into the scrotum and securing it there. Early intervention is recommended, ideally before the child reaches 18 months of age, to minimise potential complications such as reduced fertility or increased risk of testicular cancer.

In some cases, hormonal therapy may be used to stimulate testicular descent, but it is less common and typically less effective than surgery.

If the testicle is found in the abdomen, the procedure can be performed laparoscopically, a minimally invasive approach. This method reduces recovery time and the risk of complications.

It's important to note that Cryptorchidism is not typically painful for the baby. However, addressing this condition is crucial to reduce the risk of complications from testicular cancer and infertility.

If a baby has both Cryptorchidism and hypospadias, he may need further evaluation to ensure he won't have problems with sexual development. If the condition is bilateral (on both sides), the baby could be at risk for problems with sexual development.

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In approximately 80% of cases of Cryptorchidism, the testicle can be found in the groin. If a pediatrician cannot feel the testicle during a physical exam, it may be located in the abdomen. If the testicle does not descend by the time the baby is 6 months old, surgery may be required.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications and ensure the best possible outcomes for affected children.

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