What is the cause of cryptorchidism?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Introduction
In most cases, cryptorchidism may be caused by abnormal hormone levels, abnormalities of the testicular gubernaculum, short spermatic cord vessels, hydrocele, inguinal hernia, etc. Treatment options include general management and medication. It is important to maintain a balanced diet in daily life, increase intake of foods rich in androgens, and avoid strenuous exercise and prolonged standing to protect testicular health.
Normally, cryptorchidism may be caused by hormonal imbalances, abnormal gubernaculum testis, short spermatic cord vessels, hydrocele, inguinal hernia, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Hormonal Imbalance
If maternal or fetal hormone secretion is abnormal—for example, insufficient testosterone levels—the driving force for testicular descent may be inadequate, leading to cryptorchidism. Maintaining a balanced diet in daily life and consuming more foods rich in androgens is advisable.
2. Abnormal Gubernaculum Testis
An abnormal gubernaculum testis may be related to embryonic developmental issues, genetic factors, etc. If it is too long or too short, normal testicular descent may be affected, resulting in cryptorchidism. Strenuous physical activity should be avoided to prevent worsening of the gubernacular abnormality.
3. Short Spermatic Cord Vessels
A short spermatic cord vessel may result from adverse maternal environmental factors. Insufficient length can restrict testicular descent, causing cryptorchidism, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as poor testicular development and reduced testicular volume. Patients may take medications such as propranolol hydrochloride tablets, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, or nifedipine sustained-release tablets under medical supervision.
4. Hydrocele
Hydrocele is usually caused by infection, trauma, etc. Excessive fluid accumulation within the tunica vaginalis cavity may compress the testis, preventing its normal descent and resulting in cryptorchidism. It may also present with abnormal testicular position. Treatment may include medications such as furosemide tablets, spironolactone tablets, or cefradine capsules, as directed by a physician.
5. Inguinal Hernia
Inguinal hernia is associated with weak abdominal muscles, chronic coughing, and other factors. A protruding mass forms when intra-abdominal organs pass through a defect in the inguinal region, potentially compressing the testis and preventing its descent, thus causing symptoms of cryptorchidism. Symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency may also occur. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance in using medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, tramadol hydrochloride sustained-release tablets, or cefuroxime axetil tablets to relieve symptoms.
In daily life, maintaining a balanced diet, consuming more foods rich in androgens, avoiding strenuous exercise and prolonged standing is important for protecting testicular health.
