Retained Testicle (Cryptorchidism)

A retained testicle (cryptorchidism) is a medical condition in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum, as normally happens during embryonic development. Usually, the testicles descend into the scrotum by 8 weeks of age, but when they remain in the abdominal cavity or the inguinal canal, a condition of a retained testicle occurs. This is a relatively common congenital defect in dogs, especially in certain breeds such as Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier and Dachshund.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

In cases of a retained testicle, the main symptom is the absence of one or both testicles from the scrotum, which can be detected in a simple physical examination by a veterinarian. Dogs suffering from a retained testicle may exhibit completely normal behavior, since the condition usually does not cause immediate pain or discomfort. The diagnosis is based on a physical examination as well as ultrasound or other imaging tests to locate the retained testicle.

Possible Complications

The main risk of a retained testicle is the development of cancerous tumors in the retained testicle, especially Sertoli cell tumors. In addition, dogs with a retained testicle are at increased risk of developing hormonal abnormalities and fertility problems. In rare cases, the retained testicle may twist (torsion), which can cause acute pain and a medical emergency.

Treatment

The treatment for a retained testicle is surgical, and neutering is usually recommended. During the surgery, the veterinarian removes both the retained testicle and the normal testicle (if present) to prevent future health problems. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and is considered a safe procedure with a low complication rate.

Prevention

Since a retained testicle is a genetic condition, the best way to prevent the phenomenon is to avoid breeding dogs that suffer from the condition. It is important to maintain responsible breeding and to examine the medical history of the dogs before breeding. In addition, all puppies should be monitored and undergo routine veterinary examinations in order to diagnose problems of this kind early.

A retained testicle is a relatively common medical condition among dogs, especially in certain breeds. Although the condition does not cause immediate pain or problems, it may lead to serious complications in the long term, such as tumors and fertility problems. Early diagnosis, together with appropriate surgical treatment, can prevent complications and ensure a good quality of life for the dog. Responsible breeding is the key to preventing the phenomenon in future generations.