Name of the Condition

• Bilateral Intraabdominal Testes

Summary

Bilateral intraabdominal testes is a condition where both testes are located inside the abdomen, rather than descending into the scrotum as normally happens before or shortly after birth. This condition can affect normal testicular function and may lead to complications if left untreated.

Causes

The exact cause of bilateral intraabdominal testes is not always clear, but it is often related to disruptions in the normal development and descent of the testes during fetal growth. Genetic factors and hormonal imbalances may contribute to this condition.

Risk Factors

• Premature birth
• Family history of undescended testes
• Hormonal disorders
• Genetic abnormalities

Symptoms

• Non-palpable testes in the scrotum
• Asymmetrical or underdeveloped scrotum
• Potential fertility issues later in life

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• Ultrasound to locate the position of the testes
• MRI or CT scan for detailed imaging if needed
• Laparoscopy may be performed for direct visualization

Treatment Options

• Hormonal Therapy: May be used in some cases to stimulate the descent of the testes.
• Surgery (Orchiopexy): The primary treatment method, involving the surgical movement of the testes to the scrotum.
• Follow-up Care: Post-surgical monitoring to ensure proper development and assess fertility potential.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good. Long-term follow-up is important to monitor testicular health, especially concerning fertility and hormonal function.

Complications

• Infertility if left untreated
• Increased risk of testicular cancer
• Potential for testicular torsion
• Psychological or cosmetic concerns

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular pediatric check-ups to detect issues early.
• Awareness of family history and genetic counseling if necessary.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If a newborn or child has an undescended testicle(s) noted during check-ups.
• Concerns about testicular development or related symptoms.

Additional Resources

• American Urological Association (AUAnet.org)
• KidsHealth from Nemours (kidshealth.org)
• National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (nichd.nih.gov)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the condition as "bilateral" and "intraabdominal" to prevent misclassification.
• Avoid using codes for unilateral undescended testes or other types of testicular disorders unless they apply.