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Varicocele - Symptom

Alternative Names

Varicose veins - scrotum

Symptoms:

Enlarged, twisted veins in the scrotum
Infertility
Painless testicle lump, scrotal swelling, or bulge within the scrotum

There may not be symptoms.

Signs and tests:

The health care provider will examine the groin area, including the scrotum and testicles. The doctor may be able to feel a nontender, twisted mass along the spermatic cord. (It feels like a bag of worms.)

However, the mass may not be able to be seen or felt, especially when lying down.

The testicle on the side of the varicocele may be smaller than the one on the other side.

Varicocele

Male reproductive system

Reviewed last on: 5/22/2008
Scott M. Gilbert, MD, Department of Urology, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Khera M, Lipshultz LI. Evolving approach to the varicocele. Urol Clin North Am. 2008;35:183-189.

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