Cryptorchidism
Cryptorchidism is a condition in which either one or both testes
(testicles) fails to descend fully into the scrotum. Normally,
the testicles will descend before birth. In young puppies (under
6 months) the testicles can occasionally retract back into the
groin, particularly if the pup is cold or excited. There should,
however, be periods of time when both testicles are properly located.
Cryptorchidism presents itself in one of two forms: 1) unilateral
cryptorchidism - normal descent of only one testicle, 2) bilateral
cryptorchidism - retention of both testicles. Unilateral cryptorchid
dogs are usually capable of breeding, whereas bilateral cryptorchids
are sterile. It appears that cryptorchidism is polygenetic (involves
multiple genes), and therefore elimination of this condition from
a gene pool is difficult. This condition occurs more often in
some breeds of dog (Saint Bernards and German Shepherd Dogs) than
in others, but can and does occur in all dog breeds. Cryptorchidism
achieves its highest levels of occurrence in heavily line-bred
animals.
In spite of the fact that bilateral cryptorchid dogs are sterile,
both bilateral and unilateral cryptorcids should be neutered,
to reduce the risk of possible future complications. Unilateral
cryptorchids should never be used in a breeding program.
This condition is considered to be genetically transmitted. Both males and females can pass this trait on.
Question and answer
What is cryptorchidism?
This term means that one or both of the testicles (testes)
do not descend into their normal position
in the scrotum by 8 weeks of age. The retained gland may be in
the abdomen, or in the canal that
runs between the abdomen and the scrotum. In some breeds, the
descent may occur later, but if
descent is not complete by 4-6 months of age, this indicates cryptorchidism.
What are the signs of cryptorchidism?
The obvious absence of one or both of the testes in the scrotum
after 2-4 months of age is a sign
that your veterinarian will look for during the physical examination.
What are the causes of cryptorchidism?
This condition is thought to be inherited; perhaps passed down by a recessive gene.
How is cryptorchidism diagnosed?
Absence of one or both testes in the scrotum on the physical
examination is the first step to
diagnosis. In a mature pet, it is important to know the history
of castration in order to distinguish a
neutered male from a bilaterally (both sides affected) cryptorchid
male, though a hormone test can
be performed in those for which a history is not available.
How is cryptorchidism treated?
The treatment is castration. An incision in the abdomen or
groin area is made to gain access to the
retained testicle(s).
What is the prognosis for cryptorchidism?
The prognosis is excellent with surgical removal of the testes.
Note that a retained testis is 10 times more likely to develop
a cancer than a descended one, so it is very important to have
these
surgically removed in the first few years of life.