Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 3, 2025
04:15
Combined Supine and Standing Imaging for Varicocele: An Improved Diagnostic Approach
Published on: November 22, 2024
320
Is Chronic Varicocele a Risk Factor for Secondary Hyperparathyroidism?
Rossella Cannarella1, Rosita A Condorelli1, Sarah Perelli1
1Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|February 15, 2022
Summary
Bilateral grade III varicocele negatively impacts testicular 25-hydroxylase activity, leading to increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) and decreased 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol [25(OH)D] levels over time. Patients with varicocele require endocrinologic evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Urology
Background:
- Varicocele is a common cause of male infertility.
- The impact of varicocele on vitamin D metabolism and related hormonal pathways is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of bilateral grade III varicocele on testicular 25-hydroxylase activity.
- To assess changes in parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, and 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol [25(OH)D] levels in patients with varicocele.
Main Methods:
- Prospective controlled study involving 20 patients with bilateral grade III varicocele and 20 matched controls.
- Annual measurements of serum PTH, calcium, 25(OH)D, reproductive hormones (LH, FSH, TT), sperm parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), and testicular volume (TV) over three years.
Main Results:
- Patients with varicocele showed a significant increase in PTH and a significant decrease in 25(OH)D levels over time.
- Mild Leydig and Sertoli cell dysfunction (increased gonadotropins, decreased TT and TV) were observed.
- No significant changes in conventional sperm parameters or SDF rate were noted.
Conclusions:
- Bilateral grade III varicocele negatively affects testicular 25-hydroxylase activity.
- Varicocele is associated with altered vitamin D and PTH metabolism, and potential endocrine dysfunction.
- Endocrinologic counseling is recommended for patients with varicocele.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Varicose Veins I: Introduction
32
Varicose veins, or varicosities, are abnormally dilated and twisted superficial veins caused by venous valve incompetence. This condition commonly affects the lower extremities, especially the saphenous veins, due to the higher pressure from prolonged standing and walking. However, varicosities can also occur in other areas, such as the esophagus, vulva, spermatic cords, and anorectal region.Etiology and typesPrimary varicose veins, often idiopathic, are more common in women due to inherent...
32
01:24Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
421
Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...
421
00:59The Parathyroid Glands
2.7K
The two pairs of parathyroid glands embedded within the posterior surface of the thyroid gland are restricted by a dense capsule around them. These glands comprise two distinct cell populations—parathyroid oxyphil and parathyroid principal cells- pivotal in calcium homeostasis.
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by...
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by...
2.7K
01:30Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
58
Venous thrombosis, the most common disorder of the veins, involves the formation of a thrombus or blood clot associated with vein inflammation. It can be classified as either superficial vein thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis.Superficial Vein Thrombosis: This involves the formation of a thrombus in a superficial vein, usually the greater or lesser saphenous vein. Though less severe than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), SVT can lead to complications if untreated.Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This...
58
01:26Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
41
Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...
41
01:20Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
54
The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...
54