The known and unknown about the testicular descent and undescended testes

Abstract

The mechanism of testicular descent in development of testis in embryonic period is very complex, and undescended testes(cryptorchidism) is a very common anomaly of the male genitalia.As it is close relatively with the later impaired fertility and cancer risk, involving reproduction, development, endocrinology and psychology, et al, the explorations of the mechanisms of testicular descent are continuing, and the studies on undescended testes such as the exact cause, pathogenesis, proper strategies for diagnosis and treatment are in progress.Along with some muddle becoming clear, the new puzzles often emerged.Perhaps this is getting closer to the truth.This paper is basically outlining the current research situation from the known and unknown aspects. Key words: Testicular descent; Undescended testes; Child