What is the function of the cremasteric reflex?
The cremasteric reflex is a superficial reflex found in human males that is elicited when the inner part of the thigh is stroked. Stroking of the skin causes the cremaster muscle to contract and pull up the ipsilateral testicle toward the inguinal canal. Like other superficial reflexes, it is simply graded as present or absent.
Is the presence of the cremasteric reflex a differential diagnosis?
The presence of the cremasteric reflex does not eliminate testicular torsion from a differential diagnosis, but it does broaden the possibilities to include epididymitis or other causes of scrotal and testicular pain.
When does stroking the thigh cause the cremasteric reflex?
The cremasteric reflex is a superficial reflex found in human males that is elicited when the inner part of the thigh is stroked. Stroking of the skin causes the cremaster muscle to contract and pull up the ipsilateral tes …
Is the cremasteric reflex helpful in recognizing testicular emergencies?
The cremasteric reflex can be helpful in recognizing testicular emergencies. The presence of the cremasteric reflex does not eliminate testicular torsion from a differential diagnosis, but it does broaden the possibilities to include epididymitis or other causes of scrotal and testicular pain .
The cremasteric reflex is a function of the genitofemoral nerve (L1) and is present in all boys older than 2 years of age.46 When the reflex is elicited by tactile stimulation of the thigh, the cremaster muscle contracts and draws the testis out of the scrotum toward the inguinal canal.
How old do you have to be to have cremasteric reflex?
It is difficult to determine the exact incidence of cryptorchidism because of the difficulty in differentiating truly maldescended testes from those that are retractile. All normal males older than 6 months of age have a cremasteric reflex that is thought to be protective for the testes.
What causes a cremasteric reflex in the scrotum?
It is triggered when the scrotum is exposed to cold temperature or in times of stress and fear. Unfortunately, these events are common during a typical medical office visit and often lead to misdiagnosis on routine physical examination.