Varicocele

Alternative names:

varicose veins within the scrotum

Definition:

Dilation (enlargement) of the veins along the spermatic cord (vas deferens).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Varicocele is caused by incompetent or inadequate valves within the veins along the spermatic cord (the cord suspending the testis). The abnormal valves obstruct normal blood flow causing a backup of blood, resulting in dilation (enlargement) of the veins. Varicoceles usually develop slowly and may be asymptomatic. The incidence is higher in men between 15 and 25 years old.

Varicoceles have been found to be the cause of infertility in 39% of the males who were treated for infertility.

The sudden appearance of a varicocele in an older man may be caused by a renal tumor that has affected the renal vein and altered the blood flow through the spermatic vein.