Testes

Testes or testicles are the male reproductive glands in the body. They are responsible for the production of sperm and the male hormone, testosterone. The testes are located in the scrotum, a pouch of skin that hangs behind the penis.

Anatomy

The testes are oval-shaped and about the size of large olives. They are surrounded by a tough, protective membrane called the tunica albuginea. Inside the testes are coiled masses of tubes called seminiferous tubules. These tubules are responsible for producing sperm cells.

Function

The primary function of the testes is to produce sperm and to produce hormones, particularly testosterone. Testosterone is the main sex hormone in males and it is responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics.

Conditions affecting the testes

There are several conditions that can affect the testes, including testicular cancer, testicular torsion, and orchitis.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer that starts in the testes. It is most common in men between the ages of 15 and 35.

Testicular torsion

Testicular torsion is a serious condition caused by the twisting of the spermatic cord, which can cut off the blood supply to the testicle.

Orchitis

Orchitis is an inflammation of the testes. It can be caused by several types of bacteria and viruses.

See also

• Scrotum
• Sperm
• Testosterone

References

Testes Resources
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