[Cryptorchidism and testicular cancer]

Abstract

Objective: This report underscores the higher risk of testicular cancer in cryptorchidism.

Methods/results: A patient undergoing evaluation for sterility, who was submitted to orchidopexy 15 years earlier for cryptorchidism, developed a seminoma-like tumor one year following a testicular biopsy that was compatible with testicular atrophy, but with no signs of dysplasia. The literature on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment is briefly reviewed.

Conclusions: Cryptorchidism is the single factor that carries a higher risk of testicular cancer. This condition has been reported to have 3.5 to 5 times greater risk of progressing to malignancy compared to normal descended testes. Although orchiopexy does not prevent the risk of malignancy, it permits earlier detection. The need to follow these patients closely is underscored.