DELAYED PRESENTATION OF UNDESCENDED TESTES
Main Article Content
Keywords
Undescended testis, delayed presentation, orchidopexy, testicular torsion, pediatric urology.
Abstract
Introduction: Undescended testis (UDT) is a common congenital anomaly in male infants, with significant risks such as infertility, malignancy, and torsion if left untreated. Despite clinical guidelines recommending early correction, delayed presentation remains prevalent in many regions, especially in low-resource settings.
Objective: To determine the factors that delay the presentation of undescended testes and the clinical outcomes of such among children.
Material and Method: This prospective observational study was conducted at Type C Hospital Takhte Nasrati and DHQ Hospital Landi Kotal, KPK, from 1st December 2024 to 31st May 2025. Sixty pediatric patients aged 2 years to 15 years with UDT were evaluated through clinical assessment, imaging, and surgical intervention where indicated.
Results: Most patients (68.3%) presented after the age of two years. Contributing factors included lack of parental awareness (70%), delayed referrals (55%), and financial constraints (45%). Orchidopexy was performed in 73.3% of patients, while 6.7% required orchidectomy due to atrophy or torsion.
Conclusion: Delayed presentation of UDT is linked to modifiable factors. Early detection and timely intervention are critical to preventing complications.
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Dr Mujahid Ullah
District Pediatric Surgeon, Pediatric Surgery Unit, Type C hospital Takht e Nasrati, Karak, Pakistan
Dr Hazrat Amin
Medical Officer, Pedriatic Surgery Unit, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr Mian Ridhwan ul Wahab
Pediatric Surgeon/ Medical Officer, Pediatric Surgery Unit, DHQ Landikotal, Pakistan
Dr Mishkat Ullah
Registrar, Combined Military Hospital Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Dr Huma Nawab
Registrar, PIMS Islamabad, Pakistan
Dr Sajid Ullah Khan
Medical Officer, Type C Hospital Karak, Pakistan
Dr Sadaf Kalsoom
Registrar, Pediatrics Surgery, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan