The male sex organs consist of several anatomical components. A very essential part of the sex organs are the testes. The testicles are created in the embryonic stage before birth and equally determine the sex of a child.
What is the testis?
The testicle is, in the true sense, a gland containing the sperm or gonads, which are responsible for the male’s ability to procreate and thus reproduce. The testes are always present in pairs and are also referred to as gonads in medical terminology. Other names for the testicles are testicles. Already after the 4th to 6th week after fertilization of the egg, the formation of the testicles occurs in the embryo. This development also involves differentiation of the testes and incorporation of these organs into a protective connective tissue.
Anatomy and structure
The testes are oval, have the size of a plum, and are embedded in the scrotum. The direct connection of the testes to the penis is the spermatic cord, through which the germ cells travel during the sexual act. The testis is covered by two layers of skin. Between the two media there is a very narrow space. This space contains a serous fluid, which ensures a certain mobility of the testicles. In order for the tissues of the testicles and contained gonads to be optimally supplied with oxygen and nutrients, there is a connection of various arteries to the testicle. A vein leading away from the testis is responsible for draining oxygen-depleted blood. The arteries branch into fine capillaries in the testis, which are also found in the seminiferous tubules. The matured sperm cells are collected in the epididymis. These epididymis can be palpated above the testis.
Functions and tasks
The main function of the testes is to store the sperm formed after puberty. In addition, the testes are responsible for the formation of the male hormone, testosterone. As so-called internal sex organs, the testes help to ensure that sperm cells needed for fertilization are present in a healthy condition and in sufficient quantity. Moreover, the testes produce not only male hormones and sperm cells. The testicles also produce the seminal fluid with which the sperm cells reach their desired destination during ejaculation. During the formation of spermatozoa in the testicles, various stages are passed through, which in the end are completed with the provision of the so-called spermatids. This cycle occurs approximately every two months. In connection with the formation of male hormones, which are released from the testicles into the bloodstream, the external physical characteristics of a man can be formed. These hormones, which are called androgens and are formed in the testicles, belong to the group of gonadal hormones.
Diseases
Diseases of the testes are quite possible, especially since these organs are extremely sensitive. Diseases of the testicles range from congenital malformations and inflammatory processes to twisting and displacement of the testicles. Among the most feared and widespread diseases of the testicles is testicular carcinoma. Many diseases affecting the testicles can be well treated with highly modern therapies. Some diseases of the testicles such as hydrocele or varicocele are not considered as complicated diseases. This is also true for inflammations of the testicles. Unfortunately, the diseases of the testicles can cause secondary impairments that affect the ability to procreate. For this reason, all diseases of the testicles should be subjected to medical therapy. In some cases, which are caused by a disease of the testicles, a medical therapy is sufficient. Diseases of the testicles such as a so-called testicular torsion must be surgically repaired. Inflammation of the testicles and the epididymis can be a consequence of an infectious disease that was spread via the prostate or the draining urinary tract. Orchitis, or inflammation of the testicles, often occurs after a goat peter survived in manhood and can lead to infertility. In the case of testicular carcinoma, various therapeutic approaches are taken, which are useful in the case of cancer. A regular control examination of the testicles from the risk age of 18 increases the chances of cure.
Typical and common diseases
- Testicular cancer
- Undescended testis (maldescensus testis)
- Testicular pain
- Epididymitis
