The gliding testis: Minor degree of true undescended testis?

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Abstract
The gliding testis is located below the external ring; it can be manipulated to the upper scrotum but tends to ascend to its original position. Histologic changes can be detected in these gonads by 7 years of age. We evaluated 427 consecutive prepubertal boys referred for cryptorchidism. One hundred and twenty-three had classical undescended testes: 71 ectopic, 55 retractile, and 178 (mean age 6 yrs. 2 mos.) gliding testes. The gliding testes were smaller than controlaterals in 24% of boys. All gliding testes were unilateral, whereas bilaterality was 85% in the retractile group (PPPi) the absence of the gubernaculum, and (ii), a processus vaginalis partially patent from the upper scrotum to the mid groin area. This latter feature explains the mobility of the gliding testis from the external ring to the upper scrotum. The absence of the gubernaculum may be responsible for a higher incidence of spermatic cord torsion in this population. The gliding testis is a distinct entity, representing the mildest degree of a true undescended testis. As hormonal treatment gives only transient results, orchidopexy should be considered before testicular damage occurs.