ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the sequelae of increased testicular temperature in terms of fertility and characterize the sites and types of cellular damage that occur as a result of thermoalteration. Robinson and Rock observed the effects of testicular insulation on spermatogenesis by the wearing of an athletic supporter supplemented with several layers of oilcloth backed by several layers of light tissue paper. Increased testicular temperature has also been implicated as an important factor in patients with poor semen characteristics with a varicocele, and associated with idiopathic infertility. The chapter examines studies which have addressed specific cellular damage resulting from testicular hyperthermia and limits the discussion to the germ cells. Cryptorchidism is associated with increased risks of infertility and testicular cancer. One difficulty encountered in the diagnosis of cryptorchidism is the occurrence of retractile testes. Hormonal therapy to correct cryptorchidism has often involved treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin, as well as gonadotropin-releasing hormone.
