Varicocele Flashcards
What is varicocele?
Enlargement of the scrotal veins
What are the scrotal veins?
Veins of the pampiniform plexus that drain the testis
Which side is most commonly affected by varicocele?
The left side
How do varicocele usually present?
Asymptomatically
What would you find on examination fo someone with varicocele?
‘Bag of worms’
difficult to get above the swelling
What is varicocele associated with?
Subfertility or infertility
In a small number of cases what can cause varicocele?
Compression of the gonadal vein, such as from a renal cell carcinoma.
How can varicocele be diagnosed?
Ultrasound with Doppler studies
If they are asymtomatic what is the management of varicocele?
No treatment
What is the management of varicocele if they are causing pain or infertility?
Embolization or surgery
What effect can varicocele have on the effected testis?
Affected testis may be smaller
Why is the left side usually affected by varicocele?
Because testicular vein drains into renal vein
Who is usually affected by varicocele?
Men aged 18-35
