PubMed · 13367465
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R A GARRETT. 1956. Cryptorchism.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13367465/
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We report a case of testicular torsion in the left inguinal canal of a 7 month old with a history of cryptorchism and no evidence of neuromuscular disease. We discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms, sonographic findings, and treatment of this rare entity.
Cryptorchidism is the most frequent developmental abnormality in boys, present in more than 1% of infants above three months of age. It is associated with an increased risk of infertility and testicular cancer. The etiological quest is often disappointing, except in bilateral cases or associated malformations. Recent focus is on genetic and environmental aspects. Animal models have revealed the role of genes encoding for proteins implicated in testicular migration (InsI3, Hoxa 10), but in humans results are less convincing. While some degree of endogenous hormonal abnormality is suspeeted in some patients, the endocrine disruptor hypothesis is also tested. It is unclear whether the incidence of cryptorchidism has really increased, or whether there is only a better screening for this condition. However, other male reproductive problems, such as subfertility, hypospadias and testicular cancer seem on the rise. This secular trend suggests the possible in utero impact of hormonally active environmental factors, such as pesticides with estrogenic or antiandrogenic effect, and is consistent with the increased risk of cryptorchidism observed in the sons of mothers exposed to diethylstilbestrol during pregnancy. From a therapeutic point of view, there is an agreement that the correction of cryptorchidism is needed, but there is controversy on the best medical and/or surgical approach and on the optimal timing. There is a recent trend in proposing early therapeutic intervention, before 1 yr of age, in the hope of improving fertility; however, there is no proof that such a strategy can reduce the risk of testicular cancer.
We present a case of seminoma found in an intra-abdominal testis and associated with ipsilateral renal agenesis and absence of the ipsilateral seminal vesicle. Although malignant tumor degeneration in an undescended intra-abdominal testis is rare, understanding its radiologic appearance is important in order to confirm the diagnosis preoperatively and detect possible malformations of other organs.