Testis

Overview

Each testis contains seminiferous tubules for sperm production and interstitial Leydig cells for androgen secretion. A fibrous capsule organizes the organ into lobules, while the epididymis follows its posterior side. Although the testes descend into the scrotum, their main vessels and lymphatic routes retain connections to the abdomen.

Reference facts

Location

The paired organs lie in the scrotal compartments, suspended from their cords; the left often sits lower, and each epididymis follows the posterior aspect.

Parts

Tunica albuginea encloses lobules separated by septa. Seminiferous tubules drain through straight segments to the rete in the posterior mediastinum.

Blood supply

The principal testicular artery usually arises from the abdominal aorta below the renal arteries. Deferential and cremasteric vessels provide collateral connections.

Innervation

The testicular plexus carries autonomic and visceral sensory fibers with the vessels. Afferent connections to lower thoracic spinal levels help explain referred lower abdominal or periumbilical pain.

Venous/Lymphatic drainage

Pampiniform veins converge into the testicular vein, usually entering the left renal vein on the left and the inferior vena cava on the right. Lymph ascends to side-dependent lumbar nodal groups.

Relations

The epididymis and vascular entry region lie posteriorly. Tunica vaginalis covers much of the remaining surface, and cord structures approach superiorly.

Function

Seminiferous epithelium generates sperm under Sertoli-cell support, while Leydig cells release testosterone into the circulation.

Frequently asked questions