What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Scrotal Varices
• Varicose Veins of Scrotum 

What is Varicocele of Scrotum? (Definition/Background Information)

• A Varicocele of Scrotum is an abnormal enlargement of the blood vessels (veins) in the male scrotum, which drains the testicles
• In other words, Varicocele is a group of veins in the scrotum (spermatic cord veins) that are dilated, distended, and twisted
• A painless mass may be observed, which feels like a ‘bag of worms’ that causes discomfort. This abnormality may cause reduced sperm count and infertility
• Surgical correction of this defect may be necessary for both asymptomatic and symptomatic Varicoceles. The prognosis is generally good with appropriate medical intervention 

Who gets Varicocele of Scrotum? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Varicocele of Scrotum occurs in male adolescents and young adults, between the ages of 15-25 years
• They mostly occur during puberty, on the left side of the scrotum
• No ethnic or racial predilection is seen

What are the Risk Factors for Varicocele of Scrotum? (Predisposing Factors)

Following are the risk factors of a Varicocele of Scrotum:

• Presence of cancer in kidneys
• Blood clot in the blood vessels of kidneys (renal vein thrombosis)
• Young males, between 15 and 25 years
• Any injury to the testis
• Any injury to the scrotum

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider. 

What are the Causes of Varicocele of Scrotum? (Etiology)

• In Varicocele of Scrotum, the valves in the blood vessels (veins) that go along the spermatic cord are damaged. Hence, they do not function efficiently to drain blood from the scrotum
• A defect in the valves leads to a backflow of blood into the blood vessels, increasing the blood pressure. This causes the blood vessels (veins) to dilate, thereby damaging the testicular tissue 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Varicocele of Scrotum?

The signs and symptoms of a Varicocele of Scrotum include:

• A dull discomfort in the scrotum
• Dragging sensation in the scrotum
• Decreased sperm count and sperm motility, leading to infertility
• Shrinking of testis
• Sensation like a ‘bag of worms’ in the scrotum
• Visible dilated blood vessels (veins) in the scrotum 

How is Varicocele of Scrotum Diagnosed?

A Varicocele of Scrotum is usually diagnosed by physically (visually) examining the scrotal area. The following may be seen during the examination:

• A painless mass is felt above the testis
• The mass may not be seen or felt, when the individual is lying down
• The testicle on the side of the varicocele may be smaller, than the testicle on the other side
• Sensation, like a ‘bag of worms’ on palpation (feeling the area by touch)

Also, a scrotal ultrasound may be performed, to rule out any other condition that may be the underlying cause of a Varicocele. 

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. 

What are the possible Complications of Varicocele of Scrotum?

A major complication of Varicocele of Scrotum is that blood stasis in the scrotum increases the temperature around the testis. Due to this, sperm count and motility may be affected, leading to infertility. 

How is Varicocele of Scrotum Treated?

A treatment of Varicocele of Scrotum may be undertaken as follows:

• If the symptoms are mild and if fertility is not affected, then the condition may be managed by wearing a scrotal support, or snug-fitting underwear
• The following treatment is generally reserved for individuals with symptomatic varicocele and marked semen abnormalities, leading to infertility:
  • Varicocelectomy: In this procedure, the abnormal blood vessel is removed by surgery, making it possible for blood to flow through the normal blood vessels
  • Varicocele embolization: A coil is introduced by means of a catheter into the abnormal blood vessel. This coil prevents the backflow of blood into it 

How can Varicocele of Scrotum be Prevented?

• Currently, there are no known methods to prevent the occurrence of a Varicocele of Scrotum
• However, a regular health checkup by the physician may help identify the condition early and prevent any damage to the testis 

What is the Prognosis of Varicocele of Scrotum? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Varicoceles are mostly asymptomatic in many individuals, but it can cause infertility issues in the future
• A prompt identification and treatment of the condition can improve the outcome of Varicocele of Scrotum 

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Varicocele of Scrotum:

• Varicocele removal (or varicocelectomy) is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the varicocele

The following article link will help you understand the varicocele removal surgical procedure.

http://www.dovemed.com/common-procedures/procedures-surgical/varicocele-removal/