The case of testicular veins enlarging and containing varicose is called varicocele. Enlarged varicose veins within the bag feel worm-like on examination.
It is very rare in children under 10 years of age.
It is more common (85-90%) on the left side. It is seen on the right 8-10%, 2-5% bilateral.
Generally, it does not cause any complaints other than mild groin and bag pain.
When examined, 3 different degrees of Varicocele can be detected according to the severity of the patient;
Grade 1 (Grade I): It is the case of enlarged veins detected only on palpation when the patient is strained.
Grade II (Grade II): There is the presence of enlarged veins detected in palpation without straining the patient.
Grade 3 (Grade III): The patient has visibly enlarged veins.
In addition to examination findings, Doppler Ultrasonography is used in diagnosis. Enlarged veins with impaired flow are detected by Doppler Ultrasonography.
In patients with right-sided varicocele, the presence of an intra-abdominal mass should be investigated by ultrasonography.
In addition, abnormality may be detected in the Hormone analyzes of these patients. (Follicle stimulating hormone response increased with gonadotropin-releasing hormone stimulation.) This hormonal abnormality occurs due to damage to testicular functions.
Its treatment is surgery. Enlarged veins are surgically removed to prevent testicular damage due to pooling of blood in the enlarged veins.
CAUTION!
Varicocele is detected in 1/3 of men who apply to a doctor due to infertility, and it is recommended to be treated surgically without delay.
