At what age should cryptorchidism be treated to reduce the risk of infertility?

• A. By 6 months of age
• B. By 1 year of age
• C. By 2 years of age
• D. By 5 years of age

Answer: (B)

The treatment of cryptorchidism is recommended by the age of 1 year to reduce the risks of infertility and other complications. Cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles, can lead to issues such as impaired fertility, increased risk of testicular cancer, and other testicular dysfunctions if not addressed promptly.

Intervention before the age of 1 is optimal because, after this time, the testicles may begin to develop abnormalities that could contribute to infertility later in life. While treatment can still be effective past this age, the consensus in pediatric urology suggests that the best outcomes for fertility are achieved when the condition is corrected by the first year of life. Therefore, choosing to treat after this age, such as at 2 or 5 years, does not provide the same protective benefits against infertility.