At what age should orchidopexy be performed for an uncomplicated palpable undescended testis that has not descended spontaneously?

• A At 5 years, just before school entry
• B Between 6 and 18 months of age ✓
• C At puberty, if the testis still has not descended
• D Only if the testis becomes symptomatic or develops a tumor

Explanation

Spontaneous descent is unlikely after 6 months of postnatal age because the postnatal testosterone surge wanes. Current guidance places orchidopexy between 6 and 18 months, since histological loss of germ cells and Leydig cell deterioration begins within the first year and earlier surgery improves future fertility potential. Waiting until 5 years, option A, was older practice now abandoned, and pubertal or symptomatic-only repair leaves the testis exposed to impaired spermatogenesis and increased malignancy risk throughout childhood.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.