Which will occur as a result of non-descent of the testes from the interior of the pelvis to the superficial scrotum?
a. Male sex hormones will not be circulated in the body.
b. Sperm will have no means of exit from the body.
c. Inadequate blood supply will retard the development of the testes.
d. Viable sperm will not be produced.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the condition described: The non-descent of the testes, known as cryptorchidism, refers to the failure of the testes to move from their initial position in the pelvis to the scrotum during fetal development.

Recall the physiological role of the scrotum: The scrotum provides a cooler temperature compared to the interior of the pelvis, which is essential for proper spermatogenesis (the production of viable sperm). Elevated temperatures can impair this process.

Analyze the options provided: a) Male sex hormones (like testosterone) are produced by the testes and circulated in the body regardless of their position, so this option is incorrect. b) Sperm exit the body through the vas deferens and urethra, which are not directly affected by the position of the testes, so this option is incorrect. c) Blood supply to the testes is not significantly affected by their position, so this option is incorrect. d) Viable sperm production requires the cooler temperature of the scrotum, making this the correct option.

Relate the condition to its consequences: Cryptorchidism leads to impaired spermatogenesis due to the higher temperature in the pelvis, which prevents the production of viable sperm.

Conclude the reasoning: Based on the physiological requirements for sperm production and the consequences of cryptorchidism, the correct answer is that viable sperm will not be produced.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Testicular Descent

Testicular descent is the process by which the testes move from their original position in the abdomen down into the scrotum during fetal development. This process is crucial for normal testicular function, including hormone production and sperm development. If the testes do not descend properly, it can lead to various complications, including infertility.

Hormonal Regulation

Male sex hormones, primarily testosterone, are essential for the development of male reproductive structures and secondary sexual characteristics. These hormones are produced by the Leydig cells in the testes. If the testes remain undescended, hormone production may be impaired, affecting overall male reproductive health.

Spermatogenesis

Spermatogenesis is the process by which sperm cells are produced in the testes. This process requires a specific temperature, which is typically lower than the body's core temperature, making the scrotum an ideal location for sperm development. If the testes do not descend, the higher temperature in the abdomen can hinder sperm production, leading to infertility.

Related Practice

Textbook Question

Which of the following does not add a secretion that makes a major contribution to semen?

a. Prostate

b. Bulbo-urethral glands

c. Testes

d. Ductus deferens

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Textbook Question

Match the key choices with the descriptive phrases below.

Key: