Undescended testis in older boys: further evidence that ascending testes are common

Practice variation and clinical confusion regarding undescended testes and retractile testes among primary care respondents: a multi-regional survey study in the United States

“…The elevated risk of cancer in these testes requires regular exams which are facilitated by orchidopexy which places the testes in the normal anatomic position. In contrast to UDT, secondary testicular ascent of retractile testes has been described as common in some referral populations [2,10,11], and it typically requires only yearly exams by a primary care provider to ensure proper ultimate position within the scrotum. This secondary process may lead to a bimodal referral pattern of patients with undescended testes, infants and those greater than 2 years of age.…”

“…Many children with undescended testes are referred late in childhood, after long periods of expectant management. This has been shown both in the United States and elsewhere [2][3][4][5][6]. In the United States, a typical age for referral is well over 2 years of age despite literature recommending early consultation from a urologist [2].…”

“…This has been shown both in the United States and elsewhere [2][3][4][5][6]. In the United States, a typical age for referral is well over 2 years of age despite literature recommending early consultation from a urologist [2]. Whether this delay is due to confusion about conflicting information, lack of exposure to pediatric subspecialty practice, or true secondary testicular ascent is not understood.…”

Delivering high-quality child health care in general practice

“…4 It is increasingly recognised that ascending testes are more common than previously thought and are more likely to have a history of being retractile. 5 Although most retractile testes do not require surgery, 6 they should not be considered a normal variant, as some can ascend in older boys necessitating orchidopexy. 7 The regular follow-up of boys with retractile testes is recommended rather than the introduction of a more general screening programme for older boys.…”

Perioperative surgical findings in congenital and acquired undescended testis

“…2 The numbers of congenital and acquired UDT operated vs age at ORP. (11), high scrotal (2), and absent (3); at the left side, the acquired UDT: intracanalicular (11) and in superficial inguinal pouch (19). (B) At the right side, the congenital UDT with proximal to distal: high scrotal (12), mid scrotal (10), low scrotal (45), and absent (inclusive removed) (9); at the left side, the acquired UDT: high scrotal (5), mid scrotal (3), low scrotal (21), and removed (1).…”