Testis tumor: the problem of the undescended testis

The increased incidence of testicular cancer occurring in the undescended testis is well documented. Ten to 12% of cryptorchid testes are demonstrated in all series of testicular cancer which is in keeping with a 4 to 10 times increase of the risk. A lot of work is being carried out to elucidate the etiological factors that could explain this increase. A common etiological endocrine factor might be implicated. As it is well known that orchidopexy does not prevent subsequent malignancy, its effects on the histology of the testis and tumor pattern is studied with consideration of age at orchidopexy. Carcinoma in situ (Cis) first discovered in the infertile male population and seen many years before invasive cancer may provide a useful tool for follow-up of cryptorchid patients. According to the results of this work, management of cryptorchid testes is planned as either orchidopexy or orchidectomy, and time and place for biopsies is decided. Life-long follow-up is advocated.