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Effects of varicocele on male fertility

J P Jarow1

  • 1Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA. jjarow@jhmi.edu

Human Reproduction Update
|February 24, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Varicoceles, common in male infertility evaluations, have controversial diagnosis and management. Subclinical varicoceles do not significantly impact fertility, and adult varicoceles may progressively worsen semen quality.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Andrology

Background:

  • Varicoceles are vascular abnormalities of the pampiniform plexus.
  • They represent the most frequent identifiable cause of male infertility.
  • Significant diagnostic and management controversies persist despite historical recognition.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To address key controversies in varicocele diagnosis and management.
  • To investigate the association between varicoceles and male infertility.
  • To examine the progressive effects of varicoceles and the impact of varicocele size on repair outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive review of existing scientific literature.
  • Analysis of data concerning varicocele association with infertility.
  • Evaluation of studies on varicocele progression and repair outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Subclinical varicoceles show minimal impact on male infertility.
  • A notable difference exists in progressive semen parameter deterioration between adults and adolescents with varicoceles.
  • Varicocele size may correlate with outcomes post-surgical repair, though data is limited.

Conclusions:

  • Subclinical varicoceles are unlikely to be a major factor in male infertility.
  • Adults may experience progressive semen quality decline due to varicoceles, unlike adolescents.
  • Further research is needed to resolve remaining controversies in varicocele management.

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