Undescended testicles, medically termed cryptorchidism, is one of the most common congenital anomalies in male infants. This condition occurs when one or both testicles fail to move down into the scrotum before birth. If not treated timely, it can lead to complications like infertility, testicular cancer, and even urinary issues like bedwetting, foul-smelling urine, and pediatric UTI — which is why early diagnosis and care by a skilled pediatric urologist in Nagpur is essential.
What Is Cryptorchidism?
- Cryptorchidism means “hidden testis” — the testicle remains in the abdomen or groin instead of descending into the scrotum.
- Usually diagnosed in newborns and commonly seen in premature infants.
- May be unilateral (one testicle) or bilateral (both testicles).
Causes and Risk Factors
- Premature birth (testes descend during the last months of pregnancy)
- Low birth weight
- Genetic or hormonal disorders
- Family history of undescended testicles
- Exposure to smoking, alcohol, or environmental toxins during pregnancy
Symptoms and Signs
- Absence of one or both testicles from the scrotum
- Asymmetrical or underdeveloped scrotum
- In older children:
- Pain in the groin or abdomen
- Foul-smelling urine or pediatric UTI due to related anatomical anomalies
- Bedwetting, daytime wetting, or urinary incontinence if bladder/urethral pressure is altered
How It Affects Long-Term Health
If left untreated, cryptorchidism can lead to:
- Infertility due to abnormal temperature affecting sperm production
- Testicular cancer risk increases over time
- Hernias or testicular torsion (twisting of testis)
- Urinary tract abnormalities that may cause:
- Painful urination (dysuria)
- Recurrent UTIs
- Child nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
Hence, collaboration with a pediatric nephrology and urology clinic is often vital.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
- Physical examination in newborn or infancy
- Ultrasound or MRI to locate the testicle
- Laparoscopy if the testicle is non-palpable
- Urinalysis and renal scan if associated urinary symptoms exist, such as:
- Foul-smelling urine
- Child fever or UTIs
- Bedwetting or incontinence
Treatment Options
Watchful Waiting (First 6 Months)
- In some newborns, the testicle may descend naturally
- Regular monitoring is required
Hormonal Therapy
- Use of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) or GnRH
- Stimulates descent in some mild cases, but not always effective
Surgical Correction (Orchiopexy)
- Gold standard treatment
- Best performed between 6 to 12 months of age
- Procedure involves bringing the testicle down and fixing it in the scrotum
- Minimally invasive options available
Postoperative & Urological Monitoring
- Most children recover within a week
- Avoid vigorous activities for 2–3 weeks
- Long-term follow-up to monitor:
- Testicular growth and function
- Fertility potential
- Urinary symptoms like UTI, incontinence, dysuria, or nephrolithiasis
- Pediatric urologist follow-up ensures no secondary complications develop
When to See a Pediatric Urologist?
Visit a pediatric urology clinic in Nagpur if your child has:
- Undescended testicle beyond 6 months of age
- Bedwetting, foul-smelling urine, or urinary incontinence
- History of UTIs, child nephrolithiasis, or painful urination
- Any abdominal or groin swelling or pain
- Previous surgery with lingering urinary symptoms
Undescended testicles (cryptorchidism) is a common but critical condition requiring early attention. Timely intervention not only ensures normal testicular development and fertility but also prevents complications like urinary infections, incontinence, and even testicular cancer.
Parents noticing signs like asymmetrical scrotum, bedwetting, or foul-smelling urine should consult a specialist without delay. With experts like Dr. Sadashiv Bhole offering cutting-edge treatment in Nagpur, your child’s urological and reproductive health is in safe hands.
