Retractable testicle

Retractable testicle

overview

A retractable testicle is a testicle that can move back and forth between the scrotum and the groin. If the retractable testicle is located in the groin, it can easily be guided by hand into its proper position in the scrotum - the sac of skin that hangs behind the penis - during a physical exam. Once released, the testicle remains in the correct position, at least temporarily.

For most boys, the problem of a retractable testicle goes away sometime before or during puberty. The testicle moves to its proper location in the scrotum and remains there permanently.

Sometimes the retractable testicle remains in the groin and is no longer mobile. In this case, the condition is called ascending testicle or acquired undescended testicle.

Symptoms

Testes form in the abdomen during fetal development. During the final months of development, the testicles gradually descend into the scrotum. If this descent is not complete at birth, the testicle usually descends within a few months. If your son has a retractable testicle, the testicle originally came down as it should but doesn't stay in place.

Signs and symptoms of a retractable testicle include:

• Der Hoden kann von Hand von der Leiste in den Hodensack bewegt werden und zieht sich nicht sofort in die Leiste zurück.
• Der Hoden kann spontan im Hodensack erscheinen und dort für einige Zeit verbleiben.
• Der Hoden kann spontan wieder für einige Zeit verschwinden.

The retractable testis is different from the undescended testicle (cryptorchidism). An undescended testicle is a testicle that has never entered the scrotum.

When to go to the doctor?

During regular health exams and annual child exams, your son's doctor will examine your son's testicles to determine whether they are descended and appropriately developed. If you think your son has a retractable or ascending testicle - or have other concerns about the development of his testicles - see his doctor. He or she will tell you how often you need to schedule check-ups to monitor changes in the condition.

Causes

An overactive muscle causes one testicle to become a retractable testicle. The cremaster muscle is a thin pouch-like muscle in which a testicle rests. When the cremaster muscle contracts, it pulls the testicle upward toward the body. The cremaster reflex can be stimulated by rubbing a nerve on the inside of the thigh and emotions such as fear and laughter. The Cremaster is also activated by a cold environment.

If the cremaster reflex is strong enough, it can result in a retractable testis, pulling the testicle out of the scrotum and into the groin.

Complications

Retractile testicles are generally not associated with complications, other than a greater risk of the testicle becoming an ascending testicle.

Sources:

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