Cryptorchidism in Sheep: A Clinical and Abattoir Survey in the United Kingdom

Keith C. Smith, Peter J. Brown, Frances J. Barr, Tim J. Parkinson

Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.

DOI: 10.4236/ojvm.2012.24044                

Abstract

This paper describes features of a study of different aspects of cryptorchidism in sheep in different parts of England. A total of 83 crytorchid testes (57 unilateral and 13 bilateral) were recognised in 70 animals post-slaughter at three abattoirs in the south west of England between June 2000-January 2004. Abdominal cryptorchids (60) were common than inguinal (23); 69% percent of cases were unilateral. External examination for cryptorchidism was carried out on 5134 young male lambs carried out in 2001 at Foot and Mouth Disease disposal sites, and on farms, during the UK outbreak of the disease. A total of 29 cases of cryptorchism [0.56%] were detected; 86% of cases were unilateral. In both situations the right testis was more commonly affected than the left.

Keywords

Sheep; Cryptorchid; Abattoir; Survey

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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