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Monorchidism in the horse
A H Parks1, E A Scott, J E Cox
1Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
Equine Veterinary Journal
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Monorchidism in horses, a condition where only one testis is present, was studied in nine cases. Surgical intervention confirmed geldings, with most cases linked to testicular degeneration.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Reproduction
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Monorchidism, the presence of a single testis, is a rare condition in horses.
- This condition can impact reproductive status and requires accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on six cases of equine monorchidism identified during cryptorchidectomy surgery.
- To review three additional cases from existing literature.
- To describe a surgical approach for identifying monorchid horses.
Main Methods:
- Surgical identification and removal of the single scrotal testis in six horses.
- Hormonal, anatomical, and behavioral assessments post-surgery to confirm gelding status.
- Literature review of previously reported equine monorchidism cases.
Main Results:
- All six horses presented with a single scrotal testis and were confirmed as geldings after surgery.
- Of the nine total cases reviewed, eight were attributed to testicular degeneration and one to testicular agenesis.
- The vaginal process was present in cases of degeneration but absent in agenesis.
- The left side was affected in five of the eight degeneration cases.
- The epididymis was absent in seven cases and partially present in two.
Conclusions:
- Monorchidism in horses is often congenital and frequently associated with testicular degeneration.
- Surgical intervention and subsequent assessments are effective in managing and confirming the status of affected horses.
- A specific surgical approach aids in the accurate identification of monorchid horses.