Adult male health risks associated with congenital abnormalities.

Congenital abnormalities of the genitourinary system have a definable durable impact on the adult lives of those individuals affected, despite prompt and appropriate surgical and medical intervention during infancy and childhood. Three abnormalities are described, including relatively common problems of the newborn male, such as hypospadias and cryptorchidism, as well as a less common issue, posterior urethral valves. An understanding and awareness of the consequences of these 3 congenital abnormalities is paramount for the long-term care of the pediatric patient as he transitions to adolescence and adulthood.