I am a 31 year old male. In 1983, I underwent a physical
examination by a doctor who discovered that I had an undecended
testicle (As a young man, I was shy about letting my parents
know about my problem). I explained to the doctor that the
testicle was once descended, but had ascended one night after I
had slept (I know this is unusual and I don't think the doctor
believed me). Following this examination, I underwent surgery to
remove the testicle. After the surgery, I was told everything
was a complete success. So here I am now 15 years later. I had yet another surgery to
remove a tumor from my adominal area. It seems in my previous
surgery that the testicle was not removed at all!!! I am OK now
except that I am sterile. My question to is why am I sterile??
My current doctors give me conflicting answers. Some say it was
the radiation treatments and others say it may have been the
cancer itself and yet others say they are not sure. I know this is rather long and complicated, but I would really
appreciate any suggestions or comments. Thanks
R Bunch ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Mr Bunch
Thanks for your questions.
The undescended testes is believed to be abnormal on the cellular level and is at risk of having a tumor form in it. We also know that the other testicle, proven by biopsy, is often abnormal and also at an increased risk of tumor development . In other words, men with undescended testicles have a higher risk of being subfertile.
To better understand the cause for your sterility, an infertility work-up will be required. This may include a semen analysis, hormone levels and possible biospy of the other testicle or a rectal ultrasound to look at the prostate area where the semen ducts come in to the urethra. If there was no cause found, you may learn your chances for successful in-vitro fertilization or other assisted reproductive tecniques..
Unless your other testicle was irradiated ( not shielded ) , the chances of being sterile from the radiation alone is rare. Chemotherapy has a higher occurrence of sterility than irradiation.
Fertility and Urologic Oncology care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling (1 800 653 6568). Dr. Fleming is our fertility specialist We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians’ notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly. This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
Sincerely;
HFHS-M.D. MS
* Keyword: sterility, irradiation , testes tumors, undescended testes
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