Transverse testicular ectopia: What surgeons must know; Insights in embryology and management

Abstract

Transverse testicular ectopia (TTE) is a rare congenital anomaly, in which both gonads migrate toward the same hemiscrotum. It is usually associated with other abnormalities such as persistent Mullerian duct syndrome (PMDS), true hermaphroditism, inguinal hernia, hypospadias, pseudo-hermaphroditism, and scrotal anomalies. Most of the reported cases are in children with very few reported cases in adults. We report a case of 30-year-male, who presented with right reducible inguinal hernia and left undescended testis. Diagnosis was confirmed preoperatively by ultrasound followed by diagnostic laparoscopy and open inguinal exploration for orchiopexy. Bilateral transseptal orchiopexy and hernioplasty were performed. He had an uneventful recovery. Due to lack of awareness most of these cases are diagnosed accidentally intraoperatively. Preoperative diagnosis can be achieved by proper knowledge and imaging techniques (ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging). Surgeons who frequently repair inguinal hernias should be aware of disease and appropriate surgical management options available to them when this condition is unexpectedly identified during inguinal exploration. The embryology, clinical features and management algorithm are discussed herewith with review of pertinent literature.