Ectopic Testis

Definition:

An ectopic testis refers to a condition in which the testis does not descend into the scrotum during fetal development, but instead remains located outside its normal anatomical position.

Causes of Ectopic Testis

Congenital:

• Intra-abdominal Ectopic Testis: The testis remains in the abdomen and fails to descend through the inguinal canal.
• Suprascrotal Ectopic Testis: The testis settles in the suprascrotal area, above the scrotum, and does not pass through the inguinal canal.
• Crural Ectopic Testis: The testis is located in the crural region, between the thigh and the scrotum, and does not descend normally.

Acquired:

• Trauma: Injuries to the testes or surrounding tissues may cause an ectopic position.
• Tumor: Certain testicular tumors can displace the testis from its normal location.
• Previous surgery: Surgical interventions in the groin or scrotum can result in an ectopic testis.

Symptoms and Complications

Ectopic testis may be asymptomatic in some cases, but it can also cause:

• Pain or discomfort in the groin area
• Swelling or palpable mass at the ectopic site
• Infertility (in some cases)

Treatment

The treatment for ectopic testis usually involves surgical correction to reposition the testis into the scrotum. The specific procedure may vary depending on the location of the ectopic testis and other individual factors.

Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor the development and functionality of the testis after the corrective surgery.