Cryptorchidism is a common congenital abnormality of male genitalia characterized by the absence of one or both testes in the scrotum. It affects approximately 1-4% of full-term male infants and the rate is higher in premature infants, making cryptorchidism one of the most frequent birth defects Cryptorchidism is associated with an increased risk of infertility and testicular cancer, and it may also cause psychological distress. The underlying causes of cryptorchidism are not fully understood, but genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role. Treatment usually involves surgery, but hormonal therapy is also an option in some cases.

Recent studies have shed new light on the epidemiology, endocrinology, and treatment of cryptorchidism. Epidemiological research has identified several risk factors for cryptorchidism, including maternal smoking during pregnancy, low birth weight, and prematurity. Endocrine research has revealed the complex interplay of hormonal signals that regulate testicular descent, and new treatment approaches based on hormonal manipulation are being explored. Surgical techniques have also evolved, with minimally invasive approaches showing promise in some cases.

This Research Topic welcomes contributions of any type (clinical trial, correction, editorial, general commentary, hypothesis & theory, methods, mini review, opinion, original research, perspective, policy and practice reviews, review, study protocol, systematic review, technology and code) on topics around epidemiology, endocrinology and treatment of cryptorchidism, including but not limited to:

• Developmental aspects of testicular descent

• AMH and cryptorchidism

• INSL3 and cryptorchidism

• Epidemiology of cryptorchidism

• Acquired cryptorchidism

• Fate of germ cells in cryptorchid testis

• Surgical treatment of cryptorchidism

• Association between cryptorchidism and other male reproductive problems

• Cryptorchidism and puberty

• Intrauterine exposure to analgesics and cryptorchidism

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Frontiers in Endocrinology

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