Is a cryptorchid dog sterile?
Bilaterally cryptorchid dogs are typically sterile because the higher body temperature inside the abdomen is enough to prevent sperm production. They will still exhibit male behaviors. Unilateral cryptorchidism is more common, and these dogs can be fertile. Sometimes there may be an acute onset of abdominal pain.
What is cryptorchidism?
Cryptorchidism is the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum. The word is from the Greek κρυπτός ( kryptos ), meaning "hidden", and ὄρχις ( orchis ), meaning "testicle". It is the most common birth defect of the male genital tract.
What happens if a cryptorchid is neutered?
Cryptorchidism and Neutering. This occurs when the cord is connecting the retained testicle twists and cuts off the blood supply. In the majority of cases, a neutered cryptorchid can lead a perfectly healthy life. The surgery is routine and can also help you avoid some of the less desirable aspects of a non-neutered male.
Do cryptorchids get testicular cancer?
Cryptorchid males are up to 13 times more likely to develop testicular cancer than normal dogs. Neutering is the best treatment if cancer develops, sometimes followed by chemotherapy. The only way to prevent this type of cancer from occurring is to neuter the animal as a young dog.
Can cryptorchidism cause sterility?
Cryptorchidism is associated with impairment of germ cell maturation and subsequent infertility in adulthood.
How does cryptorchidism affect sterility?
An undescended testicle stays up in the body, so it has a higher temperature. That causes a lower sperm count and quality, decreasing a man's chances of being able to fertilize a woman's egg and father a child.
Can a cryptorchid reproduce?
Cryptorchid testes are incapable of producing sperm due to the elevated temperature of the retained testes. Consequently, a stallion would be sterile if both testes are cryptorchid.
Why should you not breed a cryptorchid dog?
It's considered to be an X-linked, autosomal-recessive trait. If an animal is cryptorchid, he should not be used for breeding. Dogs with cryptorchid testicles are prone to testicular torsion and testicular cancer, so these dogs should be neutered to prevent problems later.
Can you still produce sperm with no testicle?
Men who have had both testicles removed are no longer able to produce sperm, so they cannot have biological children. Sometimes, men are able to bank their sperm before surgery. The sperm cells are then frozen and saved for in vitro fertilization later. Body image concerns are common after orchiectomy.
Can an undescended testicle produce sperm?
Undescended testicles that are not brought into the scrotum from a young age will not produce sperm. Even with surgical correction, there are higher rates of infertility in men who had undescended testicles when they were young.
Are cryptorchid horses fertile?
Generally, unilateral cryptorchids are usually fertile, while bilateral cryptorchids are generally sterile. The retained testicle may be located anywhere from within the abdomen to within the inguinal canal, which is the normal passage route into the scrotum (Figure 1).
Can you breed a dog with 1 testicle?
As the testicle is not visible it can be quite difficult to work out what the problem is. Dogs with both testicles retained are usually sterile (unable to father puppies). Those with one normal testicle can still be fertile, although the quality of their sperm is reduced.
Is cryptorchidism genetic?
Cryptorchidism is a common congenital anomaly that shows familial clustering and increased prevalence in first-degree relatives, suggesting that genetic factors contribute to the etiology. Animal models and some human data suggest that environmental exposures may also contribute to risk.
Should I buy a puppy with cryptorchid?
Since cryptorchidism is a genetic disease, it is not recommended to breed dogs with this condition, as the father could pass it along to his offspring. This is actually assuming the father can reproduce. Most dogs with bilateral cryptorchidism (meaning that both testicles are retained) are sterile.
Are cryptorchid animals still suitable for breeding?
According to the AKC standards the cryptorchid animals are disqualified, they are not recommended for breeding and the retained testicles in affected dogs should be removed to avoid cancer development. Currently, there is no genetic diagnostic test to predict the risk of this disease in a dog or the progeny.
Do cryptorchid dogs have less testosterone?
In addition, in the present study a significantly lower peripheral testosterone levels were found in cryptorchid dogs group (p<0.05) in contrast to the tu- mour dogs group where a significantly higher periph- eral testosterone concentration was found (p<0.05) compared to the healthy control group.
What is the term for failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum?
Cryptorchidism. Cryptorchidism is the term for failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum, a process that should be complete by 8 weeks of age. During development, the testicles are located just behind the kidneys. Each testicle is attached to a cord, called the gubernaculum, whose other end is attached to the scrotum.
Can a testicle descend?
There are no known medical treatments can cause the affected testicle to descend. Since this trait is inherited, it is important not to breed affected males as they can pass the condition on to their offspring. Related female puppies could be carriers when their brothers are either carriers or cryptorchid themselves.
What Is Cryptorchidism?
Cryptorchidism is a condition in which a male dog's testicles have not completely descended into the scrotum. Descent to the final scrotal position should be completed by 2 weeks of age. If the testicles have not descended by 8 weeks of age, they are considered to be cryptorchid, or retained. Some dogs with retained testicles will still have them descend weeks to months after that time, but this is still considered to be an abnormal course of development.
Where are sutures placed for a cryptorchid neuter?
There are usually sutures placed underneath the skin and skin glue put on top. Some cryptorchid neuters may require sutures to be placed on the outer skin layer. When the procedure is finished, the tube helping him breathe will be removed. He will be closely monitored by the veterinary team until released.
How do you know if a dog has cryptorchidism?
Signs of Cryptorchidism in Dogs. Cryptorchidism can occur on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral). Unilateral crypto rchidism usually involves the right testicle. Bilaterally cryptorchid dogs are typically sterile because the higher body temperature inside the abdomen is enough to prevent sperm production.
How old do you have to be to descend to the scrotum?
Descent to the final scrotal position should be completed by two months of age. If the testicles have not descended by six months of age, they are considered to be cryptorchid, or retained. In the fetus, a structure called the gubernaculum connects the testicle to the scrotum. If this structure does not develop properly, ...
Can a cryptorchid dog have testicles removed?
Dogs with cryptorchid testicles are prone to testicular torsion and cancer. Neutering is recommended to prevent future problems. Cryptorchid dogs that have both testicles removed, and no other defects, can lead a normal life.
Why is cryptorchidism rare?
Rarely, cryptorchidism is due to the presence of a congenital testicular tumor such as a teratoma, which has a tendency to grow large.
How long does it take for a cryptorchid to develop?
However, about 80% of cryptorchid testes descend by the first year of life (the majority within three months), making the true incidence of cryptorchidism around 1% overall. Cryptorchidism may develop after infancy, sometimes as late as young adulthood, but that is exceptional.
Why is orchiopexy important?
One of the strongest arguments for early orchiopexy is reducing the risk of testicular cancer. About one in 500 men born with one or both testes undescended develops testicular cancer, roughly a four- to 40-fold increased risk. The peak incidence occurs in the third and fourth decades of life. The risk is higher for intra-abdominal testes and somewhat lower for inguinal testes, but even the normally descended testis of a man whose other testis was undescended has about a 20% higher cancer risk than those of other men.
How much fertility decreases after cryptorchidism?
The fertility reduction after orchiopexy for bilateral cryptorchidism is more marked, about 38%, or six times that of the general population. The basis for the universal recommendation for early surgery is research showing degeneration of spermatogenic tissue and reduced spermatogonia counts after the second year of life in undescended testes. The degree to which this is prevented or improved by early orchiopexy is still uncertain.
What is the difference between cryptorchidism and monorchism?
Cryptorchidism is distinct from monorchism, the condition of having only one testicle. Though the condition may occur on one or both sides, it more commonly affects the right testis. A testis absent from the normal scrotal position may be: Missing (also see anorchia ).
What is the medical term for the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum?
Medical condition. Cryptorchidism. #N#Cryptorchidism on scrotal ultrasound. Specialty. Medical genetics. Cryptorchidism is the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum. The word is from the Greek κρυπτός ( kryptos ), meaning "hidden", and ὄρχις ( orchis ), meaning "testicle". It is the most common birth defect of the male genital tract.
Where can you feel an undescended testis?
In 90% of cases, an undescended testis can be felt in the inguinal canal. In a small minority of cases, missing testes may be found in the abdomen or appear to be nonexistent (truly "hidden").
What is the difference between bilateral and unilateral cryptorchids?
Generally, unilateral cryptorchids are usually fertile, while bilateral cryptorchids are generally sterile.
Where is the left testicle most often retained?
Prevalence of left and right testicular retention is nearly equal, though retained left testes are more often in the abdomen while the right retained testicle is more often in the inguinal canal. All breeds of horses may be exhibit cryptorchidism, but there is a higher frequency in Quarter Horses, Saddlebreds, Percherons, and ponies.
Do cryptorchids have testicles?
Cryptorchid horses usually exhibit standard stallion behavior, but visibly/palpably lack one or both scrotal testicles. Immature horses may be undetected until they are examined just prior to routine castration. Mature horses with no detectable testes that behave like stallions may be a: Bilateral cryptorchid.
Is monorchidism rare in horses?
Monorchidism (complete absence of one testicle) is rare in the horse and should only be considered after extensive testing and, potentially, surgical exploration. Diagnostics: You primary care veterinarian may recommend performing the following diagnostics:
What is the testicles?
The testicles are oval-shaped organs that form part of the male reproductive system.
What is it called when one testicles does not drop into the scrotal sac?
Cryptorchidism is a common and treatable condition in which one or both testicles does not drop into the scrotal sac while a male fetus is developing.
What percentage of babies have an undescended testicle?
The American Urological Association report that 3–4 percent of full-term male newborns and 21 percent of those born prematurely have an undescended testicle. Usually, only one testicle does not descend. Both are undescended in 10 percent of cases. The more formal medical term for testicles that do not descend is cryptorchidism.
What happens if your testicle doesn't descend?
If a testicle does not descend, its temperature can rise high enough to cause a low sperm count or poor sperm quality. Testicular cancer is another complication of an undescended testicle, though the risk is lower than 1 percent. The link between the two conditions remains unclear.
Does cryptorchidism cause testicular torsion?
Cryptorchidism also increases the risk of testicular torsion. This occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted.
Can testicles develop incorrectly?
Scientists maintain that the testicles might begin to develop incorrectly.
Can an infant move his testicle to the scrotum?
However, an infant sometimes needs surgery to relocate the testicle to the scrotum. This article explores the causes of cryptorchidism, risk factors, and treatment methods.
What is it called when a dog's testicle twists?
One is called testicular torsion, a fairly rare situation. A testicle that is retained in the belly is free floating, instead of being secured in its intended location, so it could suddenly twist on itself. This is a very painful condition, sometimes challenging to diagnose. It gets worse: cryptorchid dogs have a higher risk of testicular cancer. ...
Where is the undescended testicle?
In the belly (abdominal cryptorchid) Where the abdomen meets the back legs (called the inguinal region [inguinal cryptorchid]) Depending upon the location, your vet may be able to feel the undescended testicle during a physical exam.
When do testicles descend?
Both testicles should be descended by 2 months of age and should be confirmed by your veterinarian during the first “puppy exam.”. Many people believe that the “cut off” age is 6 months but this is a stubborn myth. It is very unlikely that testicles will “descend” after 2 months of age.
Can you breed a dog with cryptorchidism?
So leaving your dog intact can be an unnecessary risk. Since cryptorchidism is a genetic disease, it is not recommended to breed dogs with this condition, as the father could pass it along to his offspring.
Can a dog reproduce with bilateral cryptorchidism?
This is actually assuming the father can reproduce. Most dogs with bilateral cryptorchidism (meaning that both testicles are retained) are sterile. The temperature inside the body is too high and sperm cells are unable to form properly. Occasionally, vets are asked to “tack” the undescended testicle inside the scrotum.
What is Cryptorchidism ?
Cryptorchidism, also known as rig or ridgling, is an abnormality which is developmental in both animals and humans. In the stallion, it can be a unilateral condition in which only one testicle has dropped or bilateral in which neither testes has dropped. If the cryptorchid is unilateral, then the horse has an opportunity to be virile while bilateral conditions will make the animal sterile and unable to reproduce. This condition causes the hidden testes to be unable to produce sperm that is fertile but will not necessary affect the horse’s ability to produce testosterone. This means that your stallion may not be able to sire offspring but he will still act like a stallion if the condition is bilateral.
How much does cryptorchidism cost?
Cryptorchidism Average Cost. From 348 quotes ranging from $3,000 - $8,000. Average Cost.
What is the procedure to remove testicles?
Laparoscopic approach that allows for standing sedation instead of general anesthesia, using a laparoscope to view the inside of the abdominal cavity to locate the testicles; the testicles are then removed laparoscopically, using small instruments inserted through small incisions and closed with sutures
What happens if a cryptorchid is unilateral?
If the cryptorchid is unilateral, then the horse has an opportunity to be virile while bilateral conditions will make the animal sterile and unable to reproduce. This condition causes the hidden testes to be unable to produce sperm that is fertile but will not necessary affect the horse’s ability to produce testosterone.
What does it mean when you have no testicles?
The most obvious symptom that you’ll notice is quite simply the lack of one or both testicles upon visual observation. This may also be found during a routine examination by your veterinarian, such as that performed before the planned castration of an immature horse. These are some things you might find upon examination:
Can cryptorchidism cause swelling?
There are some possible complications from surgical intervention in cryptorchidism in horses. Castration done routinely will cause various levels of post-operative swelling, though hemorrhage is usually minor at the surgical site. If the swelling or hemorrhage is not minimal and appears excessive, notify your veterinarian as soon as possible. Other more rare complications are:
How is cryptorchidism transmitted?
Cryptorchidism is transmitted in a multifactorial pattern; fathers are affected with an incidence of approximately 4%, and siblings with an incidence of 6% to 10%. The increased incidence of cryptorchidism in first- and second-degree relatives warrants counseling and monitoring of families with cryptorchidism for its appearance in subsequent male children, including nephews and cousins. The frequency of sporadic and familial cryptorchidism suggests that genetic factors are involved.
What causes cryptorchidism?
The cause is uncertain, but cryptorchidism probably results from multiple factors, including the following:#N#○#N#Improper traction of the gubernacular (i.e., fetal cord that attaches to the testis)#N#○#N#Abnormal intra‐abdominal pressure#N#○#N#Epididymal differentiation and maturation abnormalities#N#○#N#Improper attachment of gubernaculum testis#N#○#N#Hormonal impairment (e.g., androgen deficiency, decreased luteinizing hormone–releasing hormone)
What animal has the highest cryptorchidism rate?
Horses are one of domestic animal species with the highest prevalence rate of cryptorchidism. The overall prevalence is about 3% to 4%, with a much higher percentage in certain breeds.
How is the incidence of cryptorchidism related to gestational age?
Incidence is related to gestational age because testes descend late in fetal growth. #N#○#N#Cryptorchidism occurs in up to 30% of preterm infants.#N#○#N#The incidence is 1 (3%) in 33 term newborns.#N#○#N#A less than 1% incidence is seen after age 6 months.
Other animals
Prevention
- For the health of your pet, the vet will likely recommend that he be neutered. This can prevent cancer and other complications, including many behaviors associated with unneutered males.
Society and culture
- People often wonder why animals that are cryptorchid need to be neutered. The reason is two-fold: for their health and to prevent passing the condition on to future generations.
Offspring
- Animals that are cryptorchid may still be fertile, especially if they are unilaterally (one-sided) cryptorchid. While the retained testicle will not produce sperm, the normal one will. This means that there is still a chance that the dog may be able to breed successfully, even if it's not recommended. If both testicles are retained, it's likely tha...
Health
- While breeding may be possible, cryptorchidism is a known heritable trait. This condition is more common in some breeds, especially in toys and smaller dogs such as Poodles and Yorkshire Terriers. It is, however, seen in all breeds and is passed on from a father to his (male) offspring. The concern for the health of any potential puppies is just as important as your pet's health.
Benefits
- In the majority of cases, a neutered cryptorchid can lead a perfectly healthy life. The surgery is routine and can also help you avoid some of the less desirable aspects of a non-neutered male. For dogs and cats, in particular, this means fewer aggressive tendencies and less territorial marking.
Results
- For most dogs, the testicles drop by the time they are 2 months old, though some breeds do take longer. Opinions will vary, but if your dog or cat is still cryptorchid (one or both testicles) by 6 months, it is highly unlikely that the testicle(s) will ever drop. If the testicle is not readily palpable in the inguinal canal (groin area), abdominal exploration is necessary to find the retained testicle.
Treatment
- In these cases, it is best that the animal is neutered. While neutering often happens at young ages, it is sometimes better to wait until 6 months so they can better handle the general anesthesia. Again, opinions about maturity vary as do anesthetic protocols used by vets. It is best to consult with your veterinarian regarding the best plan of action for your pet.
Overview
Cryptorchidism is the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum. The word is from Greek κρυπτός (kryptos) 'hidden' and ὄρχις (orchis) 'testicle'. It is the most common birth defect of the male genital tract. About 3% of full-term and 30% of premature infant boys are born with at least one undescended testis. However, about 80% of cryptorchid testes descend by the first year of life (the majority within three months), making the true incidence of cryptorchidism around 1% overa…
Other animals
Cryptorchidism is seen in all domestic animals, most commonly in stallions, boars, and canines. The prevalence of this condition can vary depending on species and breed. Evidence of this condition is more likely in companion animals and swine than ruminants. The cause of this condition can vary from a combination of genetics, environment, and epigenetics.
Cryptorchidism is common in male dogs, occurring at a rate up to 10%. This condition is one of t…
Signs and symptoms
Many men who were born with undescended testes have reduced fertility, even after orchiopexy in infancy. The reduction with unilateral cryptorchidism is subtle, with a reported infertility rate of about 10%, compared with about 6% reported by the same study for the general population of adult men.
The fertility reduction after orchiopexy for bilateral cryptorchidism is more marked, about 38%, o…
Causes
In most full-term infant boys with cryptorchidism but no other genital abnormalities, a cause cannot be found, making this a common, sporadic, unexplained (idiopathic) birth defect. A combination of genetics, maternal health, and other environmental factors may disrupt the hormones and physical changes that influence the development of the testicles.
• Severely premature infants can be born before descent of testes. Low birth weight is also a kno…
Mechanism
The testes begin as an immigration of primordial germ cells into testicular cords along the gonadal ridge in the abdomen of the early embryo. The interaction of several male genes organizes this developing gonad into a testis rather than an ovary by the second month of gestation. During the third to fifth months, the cells in the testes differentiate into testosterone-producing Leydig cells, and anti-Müllerian hormone-producing Sertoli cells. The germ cells in this environment become f…
Diagnosis
The most common diagnostic dilemma in otherwise normal boys is distinguishing a retractile testis from a testis that will not descend spontaneously into the scrotum. Retractile testes are more common than truly undescended testes and do not need to be operated on. In normal males, as the cremaster muscle relaxes or contracts, the testis moves lower or higher ("retracts") in the scrotum. This cremasteric reflex is much more active in infant boys than older men. A retracti…
Treatment
The primary management of cryptorchidism is watchful waiting, due to the high likelihood of self-resolution. Where this fails, orchiopexy is effective if inguinal testes have not descended after 4–6 months. Surgery is often performed by a pediatric urologist or pediatric surgeon, but in many communities still by a general urologist or surgeon.
When the undescended testis is in the inguinal canal, hormonal therapy is sometimes attempte…
External links
• Kidshealth.org: Cryptorchidism