Varicocele (testicular vein enlargement)

Description

Widening of one or more veins in the scrotum forms varicocele. These are similar to varicose veins on the legs. They are associated with small number and reduced mobility of spermatozoids. However, most men with varicocele have adequate number of spermatozoids and are fertile. It is a common disorder which affects every sixth men. Due to vein drainage of the testicle they are more often located on the left side.

Symptoms

Enlarged and twisted vein (or veins) in the scrotum, painful node in the testicle, scrotum swelling, tangible mass in the scrotum, smaller testicle on the side where the varicocele is located. Many men are not aware of having varicocele until a doctor notices it.

Overview

Anamnesis will be taken and medical examination will be done. Ultrasound examination si done sometimes to exclude other causes of the scrotum swelling.

Tests

Ultrasound and urinalysis (UA).

Specialists

General Practice, Internal Medicine, Urology and Vascular and Interventional Radiology

Therapy

No therapy is usually needed. If discomfort is present, suspender or tight underwear can help. Infertile men can consider surgical intervention (varicocelectomy) or embolization of varicocele which can contribute to the increase of number of spermatozoids and improvement of sperm quality.