Testicle Flashcards
What is cryptochordism?
Failure of testicles to descend into the scrotal sac
Testicles normally develop in the abdomen and descend into the scrotal sac as the fetus grows
How does cryptochordism resolve?
Spontaneously resolves usually
If not, requires orchiopexy before 2 years of age
Complications of cryptochordism
testicular atrophy with infertility
Increased risk for seminoma
What is orchitis?
Inflammation of the testicle
Causes of orchitis
- Chlamydia trachomatis (serotypes D-K) or Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Seen in young adults
- increased risk of sterility but libido is not affected bc Leydig cells are spared
- Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas
- Seen in older adults
- UTI pathogens spread into the reproductive tract
- Mumps virus (teenage males)
- Increased risk for infertility
- testicular inflammation is usually not seen in children < 10 yo
- Autoimmune orchitis
- Characterized by granulomas involving the seminiferous tubules
What is testicular torsion?
Twisting of the spermatic cord; thin-walled veins become obsturcted leading to congestion and hemorrhagic infection
What causes testicular torsion?
Congenital failure of testes to attach to the inner lining of the scrotum via processus vaginalis
Clinical presentation of testicular torsion
Adolescents with sudden testicular pain and absent cremasteric reflex
What is a varicocele?
Dilation of the spermatic vein due to impaired drainage
Presentation of varicocele
Scrotal swelling with a “bag of worms” appearance
Which side is usually affected by varicocele?
Usually affects the left side. The left sided testicular vein drains into the left renal vein
What complication is associated with varicocele?
L-sided renal cel lcarcinoma since varicocele often affects the L testicular vein which drains into the L renal vein
What is a hydrocele?
Fluid collection within the tunica vaginalis
What is the tunica vaginalis?
Serous membrane that covers the testicle wall as well as the internal surface of the scrotum
What complications may cause hydrocele?
Incomplete closure of the processus vaginalis leading to communications with the peritoneal cavity (infants) or blockage of lymphatic drainage (adults)
