Undescended testicles (formally known as cryptorchidism) occurs when a testicle has failed to pass into the scrotum prior to birth. It is a relatively common condition that affects newborns, infants, and baby boys. According to research, up to 5 percent of newborn male babies are affected by cryptorchidism, and about 10 percent of these cases involves both testicles (bilateral cryptorchidism).
The large percentage of cases resolve (the testicles descend into the scrotum) on their own by the time the affected children reaches around 3 months of age, and the majority of cases resolve within one year of life.
Undescended Testicle Symptoms and Treatment Omaha Nebraska
If the testicles do not descend on their own, medical intervention may be necessary. Treatment options include observation and examinations or surgery to correct the position of the testicle.
Children and adults who have undescended testicles that do not resolve on their own have an increased risk of male fertility problems, as well as testicular cancer.
Undescended Testicle Symptoms in Omaha
The most obvious sign of an undescended testicle is the visible absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum. The testicles develop in the abdomen during gestation; within a few months prior to birth, the testicles drop from the abdomen, pass through the groin, and position themselves in the scrotum; the loose fleshy sac that sits underneath the penis.
If you suspect your child has an undescended testicle, consult with your pediatrician. A thorough physical exam a medical professional will confirm whether or not your child has cryptorchidism.
Undescended Testicle Causes in Omaha, NE
Though the exact cause of cryptorchidism is unknown, medical researchers believe that the condition is related to a combination of factors including familial history, the prenatal care a mother receives while she is pregnant and her overall health during pregnancy, and physical changes that may have an impact on a male’s testicles.
There are risk factors that can increase the risk of an undescended testicle. These factors include:
- Being born prior to 38 weeks gestation (premature birth)
- A birth weight of less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces
- Genetic predisposition; someone else in the family also has the medical problem
- Fetal abnormalities; specifically abnormalities that can inhibit a baby’s development
- Exposure to toxic chemicals, such as cigarette smoke, secondhand smoke, and other known harmful substances while a baby is in-utero
Conclusion on Undescended Testicle Symptoms and Treatment
If you believe your child suffers from this medical problem, it’s important that you speak to your pediatrician. As stated, in most cases, the condition will resolve on its own before the child reaches his first birthday, and once the testicle descends, there are no further issues.
However, in some cases, the testicle(s) may not descend on their own; if that happens, serious complications may arise like the risk of testicular cancer. Therefore, it is important to always seek the expert insight of a medical professional if you suspect your child Is affected by cryptorchidism.
Additional Readings:
Pediatric Surgery for Undescended Testicles
Testicular Torsion is a Medical Emergency
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