Testis and Epididymis: Features & Structure

Testes male gonads, site of sperm production and testosterone synthesis

testes location located in the scrotum, suspended by the spermatic cord

Descent of Testes originate retroperitoneally in the abdomen, descend through the inguinal canal to the scrotum

Endocrine testosterone production by Leydig cells

Exocrine Sperm production (spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubules)

Spermatogenesis Sperm matures as it passes through seminiferous tubules, straight tubules, rete testis, and efferent ducts

dimensions of testes ~3x2x5 cm; elliptical, with anterior/posterior surfaces and superior/inferior poles

covers of testes Tunica Albuginea and Tunica Vaginalis

Tunica Albuginea Thick fibrous capsule

Tunica Vaginalis Serous membrane covering medial and anterior surfaces

Posterolaterally to the testes the epididymis

the inferior pole of testes attaching to scrotal ligament

the superior pole of testes related to the head of the epididymis

function of scrotal ligament prevents testes rotation

higher than left testicle the right testicle

types of seminiferous tubules intratesticular and extra testicular

intratesticular connects seminiferous tubules to rete testis

extra testicular tubules formed by 6-8 efferent ducts which attach the epididymis to superior pole extremity of testes

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