Abstract
Anterior pituitary-like substance has been employed with some degree of success in a certain percentage of cases of cryptorchidism. 1 The action is possibly effected through stimulation of the production of male hormone, 2 since male hormone (androgen) is responsible at least in part for testicular descent in monkeys, 3 rats, 4 and as shown in the present report, humans.
Thirty-two cryptorchid males between the ages of 1 1/2 and 27 years received subcutaneous injections of 5 to 20 mg of testosterone propionate† 3 to 7 times weekly, the amount being adjusted to the size and age of the individual and the response to the material. Standard tests 5 were used to differentiate spastic from true retention of the testicle, a procedure vital for the evaluation of the results of any therapy. Twelve cases were pseudocryptorchid (spastic retention); 20 presented a state of true cryptorchidism, 8 bilaterally, 12 unilaterally. There was indication of endocrine abnormality in 8, of familial endocrine disturbance in 6.
Eight cases of bilateral and 9 of unilateral true cryptorchidism have received what is believed to be an adequate course of treatment, the maximum length of which was 5 months.
Descent of the testes with satisfactory placement in the bottom of the scrotum occurred in 1 out of 9 unilateral cases of cryptorchidism, and as follows in the bilateral cases : complete bilateral descent in 3, unilateral descent in 2, partial descent in 2; the remaining case was a hypogonad whose testes were not identified prior to treatment, but after injections, were located in the scrotum. 6 Surgical means employed in 5 unilateral and 2 bilateral cases not responding to hormone treatment, showed adhesions
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