UNDESCENDED TESTES

Undescended Testes

1. Definition of Undescended Testes: Undescended testes is a condition where one or both testicles fail to move into the scrotum during fetal development or early childhood.

2. Pathology of Undescended Testes: The pathology involves the failure of the testes to descend into the scrotum due to various factors such as hormonal imbalances, anatomical abnormalities, or genetic conditions.

   • Types of Undescended Testes:

     1. Cryptorchidism: One or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum.
     2. Ectopic Testis: The testicle is located outside the scrotum but still within the abdominal cavity.
     3. Abdominal Testis: The testicle is located in the abdominal cavity and cannot be brought down into the scrotum.

   • Causes of Undescended Testes:

     1. Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal levels of hormones such as testosterone or anti-Müllerian hormone.
     2. Genetic Conditions: Certain genetic conditions such as Down syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome.
     3. Anatomical Abnormalities: Abnormalities in the development of the testes or the scrotum.

   • Complications of Undescended Testes:

     1. Infertility: Undescended testes can lead to infertility due to the higher risk of testicular cancer and impaired sperm development.
     2. Testicular Cancer: Undescended testes increase the risk of testicular cancer, especially if left untreated.
     3. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances can lead to issues such as low testosterone levels or gynecomastia.

3. Clinical Features of Undescended Testes: The clinical features of undescended testes may include:

   • Painless Swelling: A painless swelling in the groin or scrotum.
   • Testicular Atrophy: The testicle may appear smaller or atrophied.
   • Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances may lead to symptoms such as low sex drive or gynecomastia.

4. Consequences of Undescended Testes: If left untreated, undescended testes can lead to various complications, including infertility, testicular cancer, and hormonal imbalances.

5. Surgical Management of Undescended Testes: The surgical management of undescended testes involves:

   • Orchiopexy: A surgical procedure to bring the testicle down into the scrotum.

   • Herniotomy: A surgical procedure to repair any underlying hernias.

   • Testicular Biopsy: A surgical procedure to examine the testicle for any abnormalities.

   • Surgical Steps: 1 → Incision: A small incision is made in the scrotum to access the testicle. 2 → Testicular Mobilization: The testicle is carefully mobilized to bring it down into the scrotum. 3 → Orchiopexy: The testicle is secured in its new position using stitches. 4 → Herniotomy: Any underlying hernias are repaired. 5 → Closure: The incision is closed, and the testicle is secured in its new position.

Homoeopathic Therapeutic Medicines:

1. Calcarea phosphorica: Indicated for conditions such as cryptorchidism and hernia.
2. Calcarea carbonica: Indicated for conditions such as undescended testes and hernia.
3. Sulfur: Indicated for conditions such as undescended testes and scrotal swelling.

Blood Supply and Nerve Supply:

1. Testicular Artery: Supplies blood to the testicle.
2. Pampiniform Plexus: A network of veins that drain the testicle.
3. Testicular Nerve: Supplies nerve fibers to the testicle.

Clinical Anatomy:

1. Scrotum: A sac-like structure that contains the testicles.
2. Testicles: The male reproductive organs responsible for producing sperm.
3. Spermatic Cord: A cord-like structure that connects the testicle to the abdominal cavity.