Undescended and ectopic testicle (Q53)

ICD-10 code section Q53 is used to classify different forms of undescended and ectopic testicles, conditions where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum or are located abnormally. These codes cover varied presentations such as unilateral or bilateral involvement and specify locations like abdominal, inguinal, perineal, or high scrotal positions.

These codes help medical coders differentiate between types of cryptorchidism (undescended testicle) and ectopic testis, which might also be described using terms like crossed ectopia of testis, palpable undescended testicle, or congenital malposition of testis. For example, Q53.00 addresses unspecified ectopic testis cases, while Q53.10 covers unspecified unilateral undescended testicles, commonly referred to simply as “undescended testicle.” Bilateral forms and more precise locations (such as Q53.211 for bilateral intraabdominal testes) have distinct codes. This section is essential for documenting congenital anomalies of testicular position, which can impact fertility and require targeted medical follow-up or surgical intervention.