Disorder - Cryptorchidism

Organ Systems Involved
Urogenital

Alternative Names
Rig

Brief Description

A disorder in which one or both testes fail to descend into the scrotum.

Presenting Signs

The testes are formed in the abdomen and usually move down into the scrotum by two to four months of age. Testes can fail to descend on one or both sides and are found in either the abdomen or in the groin. Testes that are retained in the abdomen are subject to higher temperatures than those in the scrotum, and for this reason do not function normally. Therefore if both testes are retained, the dog is usually infertile. Dogs with only one retained testis, however, are usually fertile. Dogs with retained testes are more prone to testicular cancer, even in the normally located testis, therefore in these dogs removal of both testes (castration) is recommended.

Dogs at Risk

Male

Groups Affected
Gundog
Hound
Terrier
Toy
Utility


Breeds Affected
Australian silky terrier
Basset hound
Border terrier
Cocker spaniel
Ibizan hound
Italian greyhound
Japanese chin
Lakeland terrier
Maltese
Pomeranian
Schnauzer (miniature)
Whippet


Treatment

Surgical

Related Disorders

Patellar subluxation
Hypospadias

PubMed References
Cryptorchidism

Further Reference Material [OMIA Number]
243


Contributor
Livia Henderson