Word parts
test/o testis
What it means
The testes, also called testicles, hang outside the body in the scrotum, where it is slightly cooler, which sperm need. Before birth they form in the abdomen and move down into the scrotum. Problems include an undescended testis, torsion (twisting that cuts off the blood supply, an emergency) and testicular cancer, most common in young men.
For the nurse
Check newborn boys for both testes in the scrotum. Teach young men testicular self-exam, and report sudden severe pain and swelling of a testis at once.
At a glance
| Spanish | testículo |
|---|---|
| Also written | testes |
Related terms
orch/o
A word root that means testis; orchi/o, orchid/o and test/o mean the same.