Prevalence of cryptorchidism, retractile testis and orchiopexy in school children

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of cryptorchidism, retractile testis and orchiopexy and investigate the effects of these clinical conditions on testicular volume among schoolchildren aged 7-12 years.

It was a cross-sectional and descriptive study. The participants were stratified by school population and age and 1,800 questionnaires were distributed. The inguino-scrotal examinations and the testicular volumes of the children were recorded.

The parents of 1,500 children agreed to allow their children to be examined. The prevalence of cryptorchidism and orchiopexy was found to be 0.73 and 1.3%, respectively. Retractile testis was found in 3.9% of the children. The mean testicular volume of children having retractile testis (1.82 +/- 1.41 ml) was less than the ones who do not (2.38 +/- 1.40 ml, p < 0.05). The prevalence was 1.7%, and 4% in the participants who had inguinal hernia also had hernioplasty.

The prevalence of cryptorchidism and the mean age of orchidopexy are high among schoolchildren aged 7-12. Retractile testis might have some negative effects on the development of testicular volume in children. Parents and healthcare and education professionals should give special attention to inguino-scrotal diseases.