Ectopic testis, unilateral Save

Ectopic Testis, Unilateral: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Ectopic testis is a rare congenital anomaly where the testis fails to descend into the scrotum during fetal development. Instead, it remains in the abdomen, pelvis, or inguinal canal. The condition can be bilateral or unilateral, with the latter being more common. In this article, we will discuss unilateral ectopic testis, its causes, symptoms, and diagnosis.

1. Causes

The exact cause of ectopic testis remains unknown, but it is believed to be a result of genetic and environmental factors. Some studies suggest that hormonal imbalances during fetal development may also play a role.

2. Symptoms

Most often, ectopic testis does not cause any symptoms and is discovered during routine physical examination. In some cases, the undescended testis may cause discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or groin area.

3. Diagnosis

The diagnosis of unilateral ectopic testis is usually made during a physical examination. The doctor will perform a thorough examination of the genitalia and may order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to determine the location of the testis.

It is important to differentiate ectopic testis from other conditions that can cause undescended testis, such as retractile testis, ascending testis, or vanishing testis.

In conclusion, ectopic testis is a rare congenital anomaly where the testis fails to descend into the scrotum during fetal development. The condition can be unilateral or bilateral, with the latter being less common. Unilateral ectopic testis usually does not cause any symptoms and is discovered during routine physical examination. The diagnosis is made through a physical examination and imaging tests, and it is important to differentiate the condition from other conditions that can cause undescended testis.