Cryptorchidism

Abstract

The term cryptorchidism refers to the condition of abnormal testicular descent (TD). In this situation the testis is “hidden” and it cannot be identified in its normal position that is inside the scrotum. In fact the term “cryptorchidism” literally means “hidden testicle” and is often used interchangeably with the term “undescended testicle”. A normal testicular function is guaranteed by its full descent into the scrotum. Undescended testes carry the risk of malignant transformation and loss of fertility. It is thus mandatory to recognize this condition in order to plan the surgical correction.