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Patient case: Undescended Testis, Ectopic Testis

Discussion

A 6-month-old male infant is brought to the pediatric clinic by his parents for a routine check-up. During the physical examination, the pediatrician notes that the infant’s right-sided testicle is not palpable in the scrotum. The parents mention that they have not noticed any swelling or discomfort in the area, but they are concerned because they are unsure where the testicle is located.

Upon further examination, it is revealed that the right testicle is not in the inguinal canal or scrotum but is instead located in an abnormal position near the pubic region, above the inguinal ligament. There is no evidence of a hernia, but the testis is easily palpable along the path of the inguinal canal, just outside the normal location.

A diagnosis of ectopic testis is made, a form of undescended testis where the testicle has not followed the normal descent path into the scrotum but is located in an abnormal location, outside the inguinal canal or scrotum. This condition can result in infertility, testicular torsion, and an increased risk of malignancy if not treated.

The pediatric urologist discusses treatment options, which typically involve surgical intervention. In this case, an orchidopexy is recommended, a procedure to relocate the ectopic testicle into the scrotum. The family is educated on the condition, and the benefits of early intervention are emphasized to prevent long-term complications. A follow-up plan is established, and the parents are reassured that with surgery, the child can expect normal development of the testicle and fertility later in life.

Questions
1. What was the key finding during the physical examination that led to the diagnosis of ectopic testis?

A) Testicle palpable in the scrotum

B) Testicle palpable near the pubic region, outside the inguinal canal

C) Swelling in the scrotum

D) Absence of the testicle in the inguinal canal

2. What is the most common complication of an untreated ectopic testis?

A) Increased risk of testicular torsion and infertility

B) Chronic urinary tract infections

C) Development of hernias

D) Decreased mobility of the testes

3. What is the recommended treatment for ectopic testis in this infant?

A) Observation and monitoring

B) Hormonal therapy

C) Orchidopexy surgery

D) Antibiotic therapy

4. Why is early intervention important for children with ectopic testis?

A) To prevent the development of testicular torsion and preserve fertility

B) To avoid urinary tract infections

C) To reduce the risk of kidney stones

D) To prevent developmental delay

Reveal answers

Answers

1. B

2. A

3. C

4. A