The effect of intermittent scrotal hyperthermia on the Sprague-Dawley rat testicle.
Twenty-four mature male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 2 groups of 12. One group was exposed to intermittent hot baths for 1 month, while the other group was exposed to room temperature baths. The group that was exposed to the elevated temperature demonstrated histological testicular changes that included decreased tubular diameter, basement membrane thinning, and decreased spermatogenesis. Fertility rates were markedly reduced in the heat exposed group, but complete recovery of fertility occurred by 10 weeks after completion of the heat treatments.