# Bilateral Inguinal Hernias Masking Cryptorchidism: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A 47-year-old man had undescended testes hidden by hernias, highlighting the need for careful diagnosis and multidisciplinary care in adult cryptorchidism.

## Contribution

This case highlights the rare presentation of adult cryptorchidism masked by hernias and emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary surgical collaboration.

## Key findings

- Cryptorchidism was unexpectedly found within hernia sacs during surgery.
- Multidisciplinary teamwork was essential for proper surgical management.
- The case underscores the need for urological follow-up to monitor cancer risk.

## Abstract

This case report discusses the uncommon occurrence of bilateral inguinal hernias masking cryptorchidism in a 47-year-old male, emphasizing the complexities and nuances of diagnosing and managing undescended testes in adults. Cryptorchidism is most often identified and treated during infancy; however, its rare adult manifestation presents significant diagnostic challenges and is fraught with serious implications for fertility and malignancy if left untreated. The subject presented with long-standing bilateral groin discomfort and was initially evaluated using clinical examination and CT imaging, which diagnosed bilateral inguinal hernias but did not initially detect cryptorchidism. During the staged surgical repairs, the testes were unexpectedly discovered within the hernia sacs, significantly altering the surgical approach and postoperative management. This necessitated an intraoperative consultation and collaboration between general surgery and urology, highlighting the critical role of multidisciplinary teamwork in managing complex surgical cases. The report underscores the importance of meticulous preoperative assessment and raises awareness about the potential for unusual findings in adult inguinal hernia repairs. This case report stresses the need for careful postoperative follow-up and regular urological surveillance to monitor for potential complications, including the development of testicular cancer. This case contributes valuable insights into the management strategies and long-term considerations for adult cryptorchidism, reinforcing the need for heightened clinical suspicion in similar presentations to ensure optimal patient outcomes.