Abstract
The volumetric fractions (VF) of various types of testicular tissue and the mean tubular diameter (MTD) were determined in biopsies from 134 cryptorchids aged 3.5-16.9 years and in a normal material (67 autopsies). In the normal group VF of spermatogonia A was relatively stable in all age groups, whereas VF of the total spermiogenesis increased sharply after 10 years. In the patients the mean values of both these parameters were markedly decreased in all age groups. VF of tubular tissue was relatively stable in childhood and increased after 10 years both in the normals and the patients. In the youngest patients the testicular volume, the volume of tubular tissue per testis, and MTD were decreased whereas the volume of interstitial tissue per testis was normal. After 10 years of age MTD was decreased in the patients. None of the parameters investigated showed significant differences between cases with high (intraabdominal and canalicular) and low retention. The results indicate that reduction of the spermatogonial and Sertoli cell lines are present in retained testes from 3.5 years of age. At puberty the maturation of tubular tissues is inhibited in untreated retained testes.
Log in or create a free account to read this content
Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com
or
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Waaler, P., Aarskog, D. Morphometric studies in undescended testes. Pediatr Res 12, 161 (1978). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197802000-00090
Issue date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197802000-00090
