Testicular volume in Taiwanese boys.

BACKGROUND

Testicular volume is used to evaluate male growth and development. Since the volume of the testes varies in different races, data for Taiwanese boys are essential to assess normal testicular growth.

METHODS

Testicular volume was measured using Prader's orchidometer in 430 boys aged 0-14 years.

RESULTS

Testicular growth was minimal before nine to 10 years of age. The mean testicular volume (mean of left and right testes) was 1.3 +/- 0.3 ml in newborns, 1.8 +/- 0.5 ml at six years of age and 9.1 +/- 3.5 ml at 12 years of age.

CONCLUSIONS

Data on the normal values of testicular volume in Taiwanese boys will be helpful in assessing the growth of normal individuals as well as in patients with testicular or hormonal disorders.