[Cryptorchism--assessment from an andrologic viewpoint].

This report deals with the pathology, diagnosis and therapy of cryptorchidism from the andrological point of view. Hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal failure and a reduced transformation of gonocytes are the key factors in fertility disorders. The aim of all well-timed therapy must be to improve the fertility potential of the sexually mature male. At present, the determination through biopsy of the fertility index during orchiopexy offers the only possibility of prospective diagnosis in this respect. In the future, it will be necessary to have a standardized procedure in order to guarantee the long-term effect of correctly timed orchiopexy on fertility.