THE INCIDENCE OF THE CREMASTERIC REFLEX IN NORMAL BOYS

The presence or absence of the cremasteric reflex was documented in 22 5 normal male subjects ranging in age from birth to 12 years. The refl ex was initiated by stroking the skin of the inner aspect of the thigh . The cremasteric reflex was present in 48 of 100 newborns (48%), 32 o f 71 subjects (45%) between 1 and 30 months old, and all 54 boys older than 30 months. The presence of the cremasteric reflex may be clinica lly significant in boys with suspected cryptorchidism or acute scrotal inflammation.