Histologic findings of Cryptorchid Testis according to Age and Location

Na, Yong Kil; Sul, Chong Koo

Abstract

A study on the histologic findings of cryptorchid testis according to age and location of testis was performed on 36 patients who were undergone orchiectomy or testicular biopsy among 128 cases of cryptorchidism in the Department of Urology, Chungnam National University Hospital, from January. 1984 to September, 1989. The results were as followings : 1. The age distribution of 128 patients was ranged from 2 to 30 years, and the age group of 6 to 10 years was most commonly seen(37 case, 28.9% ). Bilaterality was 17.2% (22 cases), and the ratio of right to left was 1.7:1. 2. The mean count of spermatogonia per tubule was decreased with aging in the group above the external inguinal ring, but not in the group below the external inguinal ring. 3. The mean tubular diameter of the seminiferous tubule was more increased with aging in the group below the external inguinal ring than in the group above the external inguinal ring, but smaller than normal control. 4. The thickness of basement membrane of the seminiferous tubule was more increased with aging in the group above the external inguinal ring than in the group below the external inguinal ring. 5. The mean tubular fertility index was decreased with aging in the group above the external inguinal ring, but not in the group below the external inguinal ring. From the above results, it was suggested that the cryptorchid testis would be undergone to the progressive degenerative histologic changes with aging, so our attention should be directed to early treatment at least before 2 years of age.