Varicocele: Difference between revisions
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==Background== | ==Background== | ||
[[File:Gray1147.png|thumb|Cross section showing the pampiniform venus plexus.]] | |||
*Peak incidence: onset of puberty | *Peak incidence: onset of puberty | ||
*Dilatation of spermatic cord veins (pampiniform plexus) | *Dilatation of spermatic cord veins (pampiniform plexus) | ||
Revision as of 06:27, 27 November 2019
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
- Scrotal cellulitis
- Epididymitis
- Fournier gangrene
- Hematocele
- Hydrocele
- Indirect inguinal hernia
- Inguinal lymph node (Lymphadenitis)
- Orchitis
- Scrotal abscess
- Spermatocele
- Tinea cruris
- Testicular rupture
- Testicular torsion
- Testicular trauma
- Testicular tumor
- Torsion of testicular appendage
- Varicocele
- Pyocele
- Testicular malignancy
- Scrotal wall hematoma
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