Original Title: Efectividad, seguridad y evaluación económica de la detección precoz de criptorquidia

Authors' objectives: The aim of this review is to assess the available information related to the efficiency, effectiveness and security of the screening for cryptorchidism.

Authors' results and conclusions: No economic evaluation studies were identified for inclusion. Furthermore, no studies were identified that assess the impact of the screening for cryptorchidism in lowering the risk of testicular cancer, infertility, testicular torsion and psychological disorders. Considering that there is no evidence to answer the research questions contemplated in the review, a small selection of papers identified in the electronic searches was discussed. These studies suggest that early orchidopexy may protect against the increased risk of testicular cancer and could be beneficial for testicular function increasing parameters like the germ cell count and fertility index. Current recommendations support surgery between 6 and 12 months of age because evidence suggest that early intervention can halt testicular degeneration caused by undescent. In addition, expert opinion is in favour of the systematic physical examination of testicular descent in order to ensure early orchidopexy. There is no evidence to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for cryptorchidism to reduce testicular cancer and infertility risk in adulthood. However, expert consensus agreed that cryptorchidism must be monitored in all children.

Authors' recommendations: Exploration of male external genitalia in all newborn and children of 6 month of age is suggested.

Authors' methods: The following databases were searched: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Lilacs; and the databases of the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (CRD): NHS Economic Evaluation Database (NHS EED), Health Technology Assessment Database (HTA), Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE). In addition, the databases of the following government agencies and scientific societies were also searched: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, UK National Screening Committee, American Academy of Pediatrics, Asociación Española de Pediatría, y Asociación Española de Pediatría en Atención Primaria. Subsequently, a manual search from the reference lists of previously identified references was conducted. Complete economic evaluation studies, experimental and observational studies with a comparison group published until April 2013, were selected for reviewing. No limits were applied for language. The selection of studies was done according to the previously defined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2016

URL for published report: https://www.iacs.es/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/751_IACS_Criptorquidia.pdf

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Full HTA

Country: Spain

Organisation Name: Health Sciences Institute in Aragon (IACS)

Contact Address: Avda, San Juan Bosco, 13, planta 2

Contact Name: María Pilar Calvo Pérez

Contact Email: direccion.iacs@aragon.es