Disturbed testicular descent in horses - principles, diagnosis and therapy

The author reviews testis descent in the horse, with particular reference t o current theories of its mechanism and draws attention to problems that ve terinary surgeons may have in diagnosing cryptorchidism in new-born foals. A section on post-natal growth of the testis draws attention to factors cau sing inguinal retention of testes. The diagnosis of cryptorchidism in adult horses is discussed, as is the genetics of the condition. Possibilities fo r non-surgical treatment are also discussed, but the author concludes that such treatment is unjustified. Some brief notes on cryptorchidectomy conclu de the article.