Varicocele

Varicocele is dilatation of the pampiniform plexus of the spermatic cord (left > right), presenting with scrotal heaviness/dull ache, a bag-of-worms feel, and possible testicular atrophy/infertility. Treatment: observation if asymptomatic; scrotal support; analgesia; surgical repair (microscopic/subinguinal ligation) or endovascular embolization for pain/infertility/atrophy; evaluate testicular size; semen analysis; consider adolescence progression.

Common Symptoms

Scrotal heaviness/dull ache; bag-of-worms; left-sided; infertility/atrophy

Causes and Pathogenesis

Internal-spermatic-vein valve incompetence causes pampiniform plexus dilation.

Treatment

Observation/support if asymptomatic; ligation/embolization for pain/infertility/atrophy

Preventive Measures

Evaluate infertility; monitor testicular growth in adolescents.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Urology/Andrology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.