Differential Diagnosis (Cryptorchidism)

Survey of the differential diagnosis in cryptorchidism. In case of a non-palpable testis an anorchism of different causes is possible. If the testis is not palpable, a relatively frequent cause is a former operation of an inguinal hernia; this is true mainly following herniotomy in premature patients in whom a missing descent has do be considered during the primary operation. The presence of a scar in the groin should not be overlooked. In case of a late ascending testis the testis was in the scrotum at 1 year of age, but the spermatic cord has grown less thereafter. In premature patients and neonates it may be difficult to differentiate between cryptorchidism and emerging inguinal hernia or hydrocele of the spermatic cord.