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Varicocele
From WikEM
Contents
Background
- Peak incidence: onset of puberty
- Dilatation of spermatic cord veins (pampiniform plexus)
- ~90% occur on left due to 90 degree turn of left testicular vein into left renal vein[1]
- R testicular vein drains into IVC
- If right-sided, consider inferior vena cava thrombosis
- Can impair sperm production/function leading to infertility[2]
- Sudden appearance may be related to renal malignancy obstructing venous return
Clinical Features
- Scrotal mass and discomfort (dullness/heaviness)
Differential Diagnosis
Testicular Diagnoses
- Testicular torsion
- Epididymitis
- Orchitis
- Torsion of testicular appendage
- Scrotal abscess
- Fournier gangrene
- Hydrocele
- Indirect inguinal hernia
- Hematocele
- Spermatocele
- Testicular trauma
- Testicular rupture
- Varicocele
- Inguinal lymph node (Lymphadenitis)
- Testicular tumor
- Cellulitis
- Tinea cruris
Evaluation
- Physical exam
- "Bag of worms"
- More prominent with standing or Valsalva
- Does not trans-illuminate
Management
- Scrotal support (for symptomatic relief)
Disposition
- Discharge with urology referral
- Implications of possible subfertility should be discussed with patient by urologist
