UNILATERAL ANORCHIA IN A CRYPTORCHID RAM

Among ovine abnormalities of the male reproductive tract, cryptorchidism is a common defect. This study described a case of bilateral cryptorchid ram in which unilateral anorchia was found. Caudally to the left kidney, an abnormal epididymis without testis and spermatic cord, confirmed also histologically, was recognized. The retained contralateral testis showed some vascular abnormalities and, histologically, hypoplasic seminiferous tubules and some foci of atypical Sertoli cells. Other genital organs were normally developed. A defect in the blood supply occurring in the early fetal period with complete testicular disappearance was hypothesized, as already reported in humans.