Testicles are an important part of a male’s reproductive system and must be healthy for a man to be fertile. But sometimes, the testicles may not descend into the scrotum, a condition known as cryptorchidism. Cryptorchidism can be divided into two types: undescended testis and retractile testis.
Cryptorchidism can be divided into two types: undescended testis and retractile testis. In this blog, we will explore the differences between these two conditions, the causes, and the available treatments.
Definition of undescended testis
Undescended testis, also known as cryptorchidism, is a condition in which one or both testicles fail to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum. This can occur before birth or some time during the first few months of life.
This is usually nothing to worry about, as the testis will usually descend by itself as the child gets older. The key difference between undescended testis and retractile testis is that the undescended testis does not come down into the scrotum, while the retractile testis does, but then retracts back up.
Definition of retractile testis
A retractile testis is a testis that can be brought down from the inguinal canal into the scrotum but usually returns to the inguinal canal when the area is manipulated. This is different from an undescended testis which does not move back and forth between the scrotum and the inguinal canal.
Retractile testes are usually normal in size and structure and function, whereas undescended testes may be smaller, or have abnormal structure or functioning. Both conditions can lead to fertility problems and an increased risk of testicular cancer, so it’s important to consult with a doctor if you suspect either condition.
Causes of undescended testis and retractile testis
Undescended testis and retractile testis are two different conditions in which a testis is not in its normal position. Undescended testis is a condition in which a testis is not in its normal place within the scrotum, while a retractile testis is a condition in which a testis can be pulled upwards out of the scrotum. The difference between these two conditions is that in undescended testis, the testis is permanently located outside the scrotum, while in retractile testis, the testis can be moved back and forth between the scrotum and the groin.
In both conditions, the testis may not be producing sperm, however, undescended testis is more likely to cause fertility issues. Treatment for both conditions usually involves surgical intervention to bring the testis into the scrotum.
Symptoms of undescended testis and retractile testis
Undescended testis and retractile testis are two similar conditions, but there are some important differences between them. Undescended testis occurs when a baby’s testicles have not descended into the scrotum at birth. The testes usually descend into the scrotum at some point during the first few months of life, but if they don’t, then the condition is known as an undescended testis.
Retractile testis is when the testicles are able to move up and down in the scrotum, but not to the point of entering the inguinal canal or abdominal cavity. This can happen in both infants and older children.
Symptoms of undescended testis are a visible lump in the groin or abdomen and a scrotum that is empty or contains only one testicle. Symptoms of retractile testis include the testicles appearing to be in the scrotum and then disappearing up into the groin. Both conditions can cause fertility problems later in life, so it is important to seek medical advice if you have any concerns.
Diagnosis and treatment of undescended testis and retractile testis
The diagnosis and treatment of undescended testis and retractile testis can be a difficult task for healthcare professionals. An undescended testis is one that has not descended into the scrotum, while a retractile testis is one that is found in the scrotum but can be pulled up into the groin. The difference between the two conditions is that the undescended testis is unable to descend into the scrotum on its own, while the retractile testis is capable of moving between the scrotum and the groin.
Diagnosis of these conditions is usually done through physical examination and may be confirmed with an ultrasound. Treatment is usually surgical and involves the repositioning of the testis into the scrotum.
In cases where the testis is retained in the groin, orchiopexy may be necessary. Through proper diagnosis and treatment, the long-term health of the patient can be ensured.
Prevention of undescended testis and retractile testis
The difference between undescended testis and retractile testis lies in the respective locations of each condition. An undescended testis is a condition where the testicle has not descended into the scrotum in a newborn baby.
On the other hand, a retractile testis is a condition where the testicle can move between the groin and the scrotum, depending on the body temperature and physical activity. In both conditions, the testicles may be found in the groin, however, undescended testicles are not able to move back and forth. Additionally, undescended testicles can be difficult to locate during physical exams, whereas retractile testicles can usually be observed and palpated during physical exams.
Thus, it is important for parents to be aware of the differences between these two conditions in order to seek appropriate treatment.
Bottom Line
The main difference between undescended testis and retractile testis is that undescended testis is when the testis remains in the abdomen or pelvis, whereas retractile testis is when the testis temporarily moves into the groin area. In both cases, undescended testis and retractile testis can lead to fertility problems and other health risks.
Early diagnosis and treatment of these conditions can help reduce the risks and improve the chances of a successful outcome.