Muscle
Cremaster muscle
Skeletal muscle loops that elevate the testis
High-yield
Motor supply travels in the genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve, L1–L2. Sensory input for the cremasteric reflex can involve both ilioinguinal and genitofemoral pathways.
Overview
Cremasteric fibers descend around the spermatic cord and testis within the cremasteric fascia. They are chiefly continuous with the lower internal oblique region. Contraction draws the testis upward, contributing to temperature regulation and protective responses.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Chiefly from lower internal oblique fibers and adjacent inguinal attachments; the precise muscular pattern varies.
- Insertion
- Forms loops in the cremasteric fascia around the cord and testis, with medial attachments toward the pubis.
- Innervation
- Genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve, chiefly L1–L2.
- Action
- Elevates the testis and adjusts its position in response to temperature and reflex stimulation.
- Blood supply
- Cremasteric branches of the inferior epigastric artery.
Clinical correlation
An absent reflex may accompany testicular torsion, but a preserved reflex cannot exclude it. A brisk cremasteric response can produce a retractile testis, which differs from a persistently undescended testis.
Frequently asked questions
What does the cremaster muscle do?
The cremaster muscle elevates the testis and adjusts its position in response to temperature and reflex stimulation.
What nerve innervates the cremaster muscle?
The cremaster muscle is innervated by the genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve, chiefly L1–L2.
Where does the cremaster muscle attach?
Origin: Chiefly from lower internal oblique fibers and adjacent inguinal attachments; the precise muscular pattern varies. Insertion: Forms loops in the cremasteric fascia around the cord and testis, with medial attachments toward the pubis.
What is the blood supply of the cremaster muscle?
The cremaster muscle is supplied by the cremasteric branches of the inferior epigastric artery.