PubMed · 14091174
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G GASSER. 1963-09-10. [CRYPTORCHISM].. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14091174/
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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.
There is a male factor involved in up to half of all infertile couples. Potential causes of male factor infertility are many and require thorough evaluation for their accurate elucidation. A complete medical history in conjunction with a focused examination can allow for an appropriate choice of laboratory and imaging studies. The semen analysis is a crucial first step, but it is by no means sufficient to determine cause or dictate therapy. A systematic approach is necessary to help guide the evaluation and exclude less likely causes. The causes discussed within this article are broad, and the prognosis for any given couple depends, in large part, on the cause of the infertility. Without a firm understanding of the genetics, anatomy, physiology, and their interactions necessary to permit full functioning of the male reproductive system, the evaluation becomes an inefficient exercise that often fails to elucidate the precise cause of infertility. Treatment success relies not just on a clinical diagnosis but on a determination of the cause of the male factor infertility. Therefore, couples with a component of male factor infertility need a systematic evaluation directed at the male partner to maximize their reproductive potential.