Development of cryptorchid testes

Abstract

Development of normal germ cells during childhood is a continuous process which ends at puberty. Cryptorchid gonads have severe impairment of their germ cell development which is more pronounced the higher the gonads are situated. However, all newborns with intra-abdominal testes had a normal number of germ cells. This strongly supports the theory that cryptorchidism is a disease and not a malformation. As a consequence, adequate and early treatment of cryptorchid boys should be undertaken in order to preserve good chances of fertility.

Inappropriate Use of Ultrasound in Management of Pediatric Cryptorchidism

“…4 Although there is little controversy regarding the benefits of orchidopexy, extensive literature discusses the ideal timing for the procedure. [5][6][7][8][9] In general, consensus favors earlier orchidopexy (ie, between 6 and 12 months of age) to achieve these goals. 3,[10][11][12] The value of ultrasound imaging for the diagnosis, prognosis, and surgical planning of UDT is limited, which is underscored in the American Urological Association guidelines.…”

Absent or Non Descent of the Testis

“…The middle portion of the WD remains a simple tube, to form the vas deferens. The posterior or caudal portion of the WD dilates, elongates cranially and eventually forms the seminal vesicle (Hadziselimovic et al, 1987;Hutson & Beasley, 1988;Saino et al 1997) Androgens are crucial for the maintenance and elaboration of the WD later in development. Their action is mediated via their receptor in the androgen receptor (AR) inside target cells.…”

Laparoscopy for the Undescended Testes

“…By 1 year of age, the incidence of cryptorchidism declines to about 1% and remains constant throughout adulthood. Normal germ cell development during childhood is a continuous process that is completed at puberty 4 . Undescended testes demonstrate more pronounced impairment in germ cell development the higher the testes are located, although newborns with intrabdominal testes have a normal number of germ cells 4 .…”

“…Normal germ cell development during childhood is a continuous process that is completed at puberty 4 . Undescended testes demonstrate more pronounced impairment in germ cell development the higher the testes are located, although newborns with intrabdominal testes have a normal number of germ cells 4 . The histopathologic hallmarks associated with cryptorchidism are evident between 1 and 2 years of age and include decreased numbers of leydig cells, degeneration of sertoli cells, delayed disappearance of gonocytes, delayed appearance of adult dark (Ad) spermatogonia, failure of primary spermatocytes to develop, and reduced total germ cell counts [5][6][7] .…”