Germandescended

Germandescended, commonly known as an undescended testis or cryptorchidism, is a congenital condition in which one or both testes fail to descend into the scrotum before birth. In normal fetal development the testes form within the abdomen and then migrate through the inguinal canal to the scrotum. When this migration is incomplete the testis remains in the abdomen, inguinal canal, or at the base of the scrotum. The combination of age, ethnicity, and sex influences prevalence, with the condition occurring in about 3–5% of full-term males and up to 30% of premature infants.

Risk factors include low birth weight, maternal smoking, gestational hypertension, and a family history of cryptorchidism. The exact mechanism is unclear but involves hormonal imbalances, genetic mutations affecting the Sertoli‑Leydig cell axis, and mechanical factors such as a narrow inguinal canal. Clinically the testis may appear absent or may be palpable in the inguinal region; ultrasonography or MRI helps confirm localization when physical exam is inconclusive.

Surgical correction, orchiopexy, is standard treatment and is typically performed between 6 and 18 months of age. If not treated, the condition increases the risk of infertility, testicular cancer, and testicular torsion. Hormonal therapy with gonadotropin‑releasing hormone analogue or hCG has limited efficacy and is rarely used. Follow‑up includes regular physical exams and imaging to monitor testicular position and development. Early intervention improves fertility potential and reduces oncologic risk. Research focuses on genetic pathways, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and the long‑term outcomes of early versus delayed surgery.