Disorders Of The Male Reproductive

System

Testicular Torsion Spermatic cord twists Males whose attachment is higher up

are at risk of testicular torsion A male who notices the ability of either

or both testicles to freely rotate within the scrotum should be aware that he is at risk of testicular torsion

TESTICULAR TORSION DESCRIPTION

AKA “WINTER SYNDROME” The scrotum of a man who has been

lying in a warm bed is relaxed. When he arises, his scrotum is exposed to the colder room air. If the spermatic cord is twisted while the scrotum is loose, the sudden contraction that results from the abrupt temperature change can trap the testicle in that position. The result is a testicular torsion.

Testicular TorsionContinued

More frequent among adolescents, it should be considered in all cases where there is testicular pain

Can destroy testes due to absence of blood supply to the testicle

Cause: strenuous exercise, trauma, physical activity, sleeping

Testicular Torsion Continued

Symptoms: pain in groin, swelling of scrotum, nausea, vomiting

Treatment: immediate surgery, removal of testicle if not treated quickly

If treated within 6 hours, there is nearly a 100% chance of saving the testicle. Within 12 hours this rate decreases to 70%, within 24 hours is 20%, and after 24 hours the rate approaches 0.Once the testicle is dead it must be removed to prevent gangrenous infection.

Undescended Testes

Testes remain inside the body rather than hanging loose in the scrotum

Cause: occurs at birthSymptoms: undeveloped testes, unbalanced scrotum

Undescended Testes

ContinuedTreatment: testes descend on their own within 1st year or surgery

If not treated: cancer or infertility may occur

Inguinal HerniaEXPLANATION: As a male fetus grows and matures during

pregnancy, the testicles develop in the abdomen and then move down into the scrotum through an area called the inguinal canal. Shortly after the baby is born, the inguinal canal closes, preventing the testicles from moving back into the abdomen. If this area does not close off completely, a loop of intestine can move into the inguinal canal through the weakened area of the lower abdominal wall, causing a hernia.

Inguinal HerniaContinued

Symptoms: tender bulge in scrotum, groin discomfort, very painful, nausea, vomiting

Treatment: surgery

INGUINAL HERNIA

Infertility

Inability to reproduceToo few sperm or that sperm cannot fertilize the egg

Infertility ContinuedCause: exposure to drugs, X-

rays, tight clothing, environmental reasons, heat

Treatment: fertility drugs, fertility treatment, in vitro fertilization

Prostate Cancer

Most common cancer among American males

2nd leading cause of death among U.S. men

Cause: unknown

Prostate Cancer Continued

Symptoms: difficulty urinating, frequent urination, painful or burning urination

Treatment: radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery

Testicular Cancer

Early detection and treatment = excellent chance of recovery

Self testicular examination; Figure 16-5

Cause: Abnormal cells begin to grow in the testes

Testicular CancerContinued

Symptoms: swelling or lump in testes, feeling of heaviness in scrotum, pain in groin

Treatment: radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery