Abstract:
The study investigated the social class profile of adults with bilateral non-palpablecryptorchidism in
NorthemNigeria. Methods: A 5 year retrospective review of adults with bilateral non-palpable testes
presenting in 3 tertiary health facilities in Northern Nigeria was done. Social classification was done according
to the Registrar General's classification. Patients' presenting complaint, laparoscopy findings and definitive
therapy offered were analysed, and presented as tables and percentages. Chi square was used to test for
significance in occurrence of cryptorchidism between Social Classes.Results:28 patients' records~were
available for review. Mean age at presentation was 28.5 years .Social Class II patients constituted 3.6% of the
study population, 32.1% were ift Social Class HI, and 39.3% were in Social Class IV while 25% were in Social
Class V (p=0.220).The main repsons for consultation were primary infertility in 42.8% and empty scrotum in
50% One patient (3.6%) presented with features of metastatic testicular carcinoma. Diagnostic laparoscopy
was done in only 45% ofpatients. Treatment consisted of an orchidopexy in 75.9% cases and orchidectomy in
18.5%Conclusion: There is a difference in occurrence of cryptorchidism betweensocial classes. This can be
partly explainedby deprivation and poor socioeconomic conditions in life. Patients may come to the fore when
being evaluated for infertility. It is necessary to increase awareness, health educate the populace and elevate
socioeconomic status to avoid late presentation.
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