Describe the condition known as cryptorchidism.

Cryptorchidism refers to a medical condition in which one or both of the testes fail to descend into the scrotum. Normally, during fetal development, the testes form in the abdomen and later descend into the scrotum before birth. When this descent does not occur, the testes remain located either in the abdominal cavity or in the inguinal canal. This condition is significant because undescended testes can lead to various complications, including infertility, testicular cancer, and torsion.

The focus of treatment often involves surgical intervention to relocate the testes into the scrotum, particularly if the condition persists beyond the age when descent typically occurs. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to mitigate long-term health risks associated with cryptorchidism. Understanding the implications of this condition is crucial in both pediatric medicine and reproductive health.