Cryptorchidism in stallions

Abstract

Cryptorchidism is the most common disorder of sexual development in the male. The etiopathogenesis of cryptorchidism remains poorly understood and may involve genetic and environmental factors. The condition is obvious in horses with a good history, but diagnosis of cryptorchidism can be challenging in an apparently gelded horse presenting with stallion-like behavior and hemicastrated horses. Determination of the location of the retained testis is important for the selection of the surgical approach for cryptorchidectomy. The objective of this paper is to review current knowledge regarding pathogenesis of cryptorchidism in the equine, and methods for diagnosis including ultrasonographic determination of the location of the retained testis. A discussion of cryptorchidectomy approaches and possible complications is presented.