Varicocele(Varicose Veins—Scrotum)
by
Sonja Lyons DefinitionA varicocele is swelling in the scrotum associated with the backup of blood in the testicular veins.
CausesA varicocele is caused by a problem in the main vein of the testicle. Blood normally leaves the testicle through this vein. When blood flow through the vein is slowed, the blood backs up into smaller veins. This causes bulging of blood vessels in the scrotum. Risk FactorsVaricoceles typically develop in men 15-25 years old. There are no specific factors that increase your risk of getting varicoceles. SymptomsVaricoceles may not always have symptoms. When they do appear, symptoms may include:
Varicoceles may cause the testicle to be smaller. They may also contribute to male infertility by reducing sperm quality and/or quantity. DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Varicoceles are usually easily diagnosed by exam. Your doctor may recommend tests to confirm varicoceles or rule out other conditions. Tests may include:
TreatmentTreatment is not required for all varicoceles. Treatment is generally recommended if a varicocele is causing infertility, change in testicle size, or pain. Options may include one or more of the following: Home CareTo help ease discomfort, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers. In some cases, you may need to wear supportive or athletic underwear. SurgerySurgical treatment options include:
PreventionThere are no current guidelines to prevent varicoceles. RESOURCES:Reproductive Facts—American Society for Reproductive Medicine http://www.reproductivefacts.org Urology Care Foundation http://urologyhealth.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca References:Khera M, Lipshultz LI. Evolving approach to the varicocele.
Urol Clin North Am. 2008;35(2):183-189. Robinson SP, Hampton LJ, Koo HP. Treatment strategy for the adolescent varicocele.
Urol Clin North Am. 2010;37(2):269-278. Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Report on vericocele and infertility: A committee opinion. Fertil Steril. 2014;102(6):1556-1560.
Varicocele in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed...
. Accessed January 29, 2021. Varicocele. Kids Health—Nemours Foundation website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed January 29, 2021. Varicoceles. Urology Care Foundation website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed January 29, 2021. Wampler SM, Llanes M. Common scrotal and testicular problems.
Prim Care. 2010;37(3):613-629. Last reviewed March 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Adrienne Carmack, MD | |
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