What condition is described by the absence of one or both testicles?

The condition characterized by the absence of one or both testicles is accurately described by anorchism. Anorchism refers specifically to the congenital absence of one (unilateral anorchism) or both testicles (bilateral anorchism). It is a rare condition that can present with various developmental and hormonal challenges due to the absence of the testicular tissue.

In contrast, cryptorchidism refers to a condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum but are present in the abdominal cavity or groin. Hypospadias involves a malformation of the urethra's opening on the underside of the penis rather than on the tip, and orchitis is an inflammatory condition of the testicles often due to infection, which does not pertain to the absence of the testicles themselves. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing and coding male reproductive health conditions accurately.