Testicular regression syndrome in children: a retrospective analysis of diagnostic and laparoscopic findings

Purpose: Testicular regression syndrome (TRS) is a cause of nonpalpable testis resulting from prenatal testicular involution. This study aims to describe clinical, ultrasonographic, and laparoscopic characteristics and surgical management of TRS, and to evaluate the necessity of inguinal exploration following laparoscopy. Materials and methods: < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: = 0.263). Spermatic vessels and vas deferens terminated proximal to the ring in 3 cases (7.0%) and traversed the ring in 40 cases (93.0%). Inguinal exploration was performed in 17/43 patients (39.5%), revealing and excising 13 testicular remnants (30.2%). Specimens sent for histopathology showed no testicular or seminiferous tissue. Conclusions: Testicular regression syndrome (TRS) is characterized by left-sided predominance and age-dependent compensatory hypertrophy of the contralateral testis. Ultrasonography is unreliable for diagnosis. While inguinal exploration frequently identifies fibrous remnants containing histological markers of regression, the clinical necessity of routine excision remains debated. We advocate for an individualized management approach that balances the benefits of definitive diagnosis against the low risk of malignancy.