It is the varicose dilatation of the veins of the spermatic cord and the pampiniform venous plexus, which connects the testicle to the abdomen.
In general, the causes are unknown, when no factor is observed that is producing the physical blockage of venous blood drainage.
Varicocele often produces no signs or symptoms. On rare occasions, it may produce pain, which can range from discomfort to severe pain, increasing with standing (improves with stretching), with physical exertion, as well as as as the day progresses. Over time, the varicocele may increase in size and become more evident.
Diagnosis is made by obtaining a medical history and physical examination of the affected area. Scrotal ultrasound testing may also be necessary.
Treatment options include surgery and embolization. Treatment may improve fertility.
Consult your doctor if you notice inadequate development or atrophy of the affected testicle, or if there are fertility problems.
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Eyre RC. Evaluation of nonacute scrotal pathology in adult men. UpToDate [internet]; 2015 [Last access: June 2, 2017]. Available at http://uptodates.riberasalud.csinet.es/contents/evaluation-of-nonacute-scrotal-pathology-in-adult-men
- Hadziselimovic F, Herzog B, Jenny P. The chance for fertility in adolescent boys after corrective surgery for varicocele. J Urol 1995; 154:731
- Sandlow J. Pathogenesis and treatment of varicoceles. BMJ 2004; 328:967
- Vilardell-Latorre E. Enfermedades del testículo. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 12º edición. 2135
- Diccionario terminológico de ciencias médicas, 13ª edición. Masson
