Undescended Testis in Babies- Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Undescended testis, medically known as cryptorchidism, is a common condition in newborn boys in which one or both testicles do not move down into the scrotum before birth. Normally, the testicles develop inside the abdomen and gradually descend into the scrotum during pregnancy. However, in some babies, this process remains incomplete. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are important to support normal testicular development and reduce potential complications later in life. Parents looking for expert guidance on undescended testis treatment in Prayagraj (Allahabad) can consult Dr. Dhanesh Agrahari, Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology Specialist and Co-Founder of Phoenix Hospital, Allahabad.

What is Undescended Testis in Babies?

Undescended testis is a condition in which one or both testicles are not present in their normal position inside the scrotum. It may affect one testicle (unilateral) or both testicles (bilateral). This condition is more common in premature babies because testicular descent may not be completed before birth. In some infants, the testicle descends naturally during the first few months of life. However, if it remains undescended, medical evaluation is necessary.

What are the Causes of Undescended Testis?

The exact cause of undescended testis is not always known. Several factors may contribute to this condition, including:

Premature Birth: Babies born before completing pregnancy have a higher risk because testicular descent may be incomplete.

Low Birth Weight: Smaller newborns have an increased likelihood of developing this condition.

Hormonal Factors: Hormones play an important role in the normal development and descent of the testicles.

Genetic Factors: Family history and certain genetic conditions may increase the risk.

Developmental Factors: Abnormalities during fetal development may affect the movement of the testicles into the scrotum.

What are the Symptoms of Undescended Testis?

The most noticeable sign is an empty or partially empty scrotum. Parents may observe the following:

• One side of the scrotum appears smaller or less developed.
• One or both testicles cannot be felt inside the scrotum.
• The scrotum may look asymmetrical.
• Both testicles may be absent from the scrotum in bilateral cases.

Undescended testis usually does not cause pain or discomfort in newborn babies. Therefore, routine newborn examinations are important for early identification.

How is Undescended Testis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis generally involves a physical examination by a pediatric surgeon or pediatric urologist. The doctor checks whether the testicle is palpable (can be felt) or non-palpable (cannot be felt) and assesses its position. Depending on the findings, the evaluation may include:

Physical Examination: Checking the scrotum and groin to locate the testicle.

Medical History: Reviewing the baby's birth history, gestational age and development.

Additional Evaluation: Non-palpable testicles may require further assessment. In selected cases, diagnostic laparoscopy helps locate an intra-abdominal testicle. Routine ultrasound is generally not recommended before referral because it often does not reliably locate a non-palpable testicle.

What is the Treatment for Undescended Testis?

Treatment depends on the baby's age, the position of the testicle and whether one or both testicles are affected.

1. Observation During Early Infancy

Some undescended testicles descend naturally during the first few months after birth. Doctors may monitor the condition during this period. However, if the testicle has not descended by six months of corrected age, spontaneous descent becomes unlikely, and specialist evaluation is recommended.

2. Orchidopexy Surgery

Orchidopexy is the standard surgical treatment for an undescended testicle. During this procedure, the surgeon carefully moves the testicle into the scrotum and secures it in the correct position. The procedure is generally recommended between 6 and 12 months of age and should ideally be completed by 18 months.

3. Laparoscopic Surgery

For testicles located inside the abdomen, laparoscopic surgery may be used to identify and treat the condition. The surgical approach depends on the location and condition of the testicle.

Why is Early Treatment Important?

Timely treatment of undescended testis can help reduce potential long-term complications, including:

• Increased risk of fertility problems.
• Higher risk of testicular cancer later in life.
• Increased chances of testicular torsion.
• Risk of associated inguinal hernia.
• Possible effects on normal testicular development.
• Early surgical correction improves the chances of preserving testicular function, although it does not eliminate every long-term risk.

Consult Dr. Dhanesh Agrahari for Undescended Testis Treatment in Prayagraj

Choosing an experienced pediatric surgeon is important when a baby is diagnosed with an undescended testicle. Dr. Dhanesh Agrahari, Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology Specialist and Co-Founder of Phoenix Hospital, Allahabad, provides specialist evaluation and surgical care for various pediatric conditions. Parents seeking guidance for undescended testis, hypospadias, pediatric urological conditions and other childhood surgical problems can consult Dr. Dhanesh Agrahari for appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning. Early consultation helps parents understand the condition and make informed decisions about their child's healthcare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is undescended testis common in newborn babies?

Yes. Undescended testis is a relatively common congenital condition in newborn boys, particularly in premature babies. It may affect one or both testicles.

2. Can an undescended testicle come down naturally?

Yes. Some testicles descend naturally during the first few months after birth. If the condition persists beyond six months of corrected age, specialist evaluation and treatment are generally recommended.

3. At what age should undescended testis surgery be performed?

Orchidopexy is generally recommended between 6 and 12 months of age and should ideally be completed by 18 months.

4. Is undescended testis surgery safe for babies?

Orchidopexy is an established pediatric surgical procedure. Like all operations, it carries some risks, but an experienced pediatric surgical team can assess the baby and discuss the benefits and potential complications.

5. Does undescended testis affect future fertility?

It can affect fertility, particularly when both testicles are undescended. Early treatment may improve the chances of preserving fertility potential.

6. Can undescended testis cause problems later in life?

Yes. Untreated undescended testis is associated with an increased risk of infertility, testicular cancer and testicular torsion. Early treatment helps reduce certain risks, but long-term follow-up remains important.

7. Which doctor treats undescended testis in babies?

A pediatric surgeon or pediatric urologist treats undescended testis. Parents in Prayagraj (Allahabad) can consult Dr. Dhanesh Agrahari for specialist evaluation and treatment guidance.