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Varicocele

Incompetent or inadequate valves within the veins along the spermatic cord cause a varicocele. The abnormal valves interfere with normal blood flow, causing a backup of blood and resulting in enlarged veins. Varicoceles usually develop slowly, with no symptoms. Varicoceles are a common cause of infertility in men.

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.

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