Which term describes the absence of one or both testicles from the scrotum?

The term that describes the absence of one or both testicles from the scrotum is "cryptorchidism." This condition occurs when one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotal sac during fetal development or shortly after birth, which is a critical stage for proper testicular function and production of sperm. If the testicles remain undescended, it can lead to complications such as fertility issues or increased risk for testicular cancer later in life.

The other terms, while related to conditions affecting the male reproductive system, do not accurately describe the absence of testicles from the scrotum. Castration refers to the surgical removal of the testicles, epispadias is a rare condition involving an abnormality of the urethra, and impotence relates to erectile dysfunction. None of these terms conveys the specific situation of undescended testicles as cryptorchidism does.