Varicocele
Definition
A varicocele is a widening of the veins along the spermatic cord. This cord holds up a man's testicles .
Alternative Names
Varicose veins - scrotumCauses
A varicocele forms when valves inside the veins along the spermatic cord prevent blood from flowing properly. This causes the blood to backup, which leads to swelling and widening of the veins. (This is essentially the same process that leads to varicose veins, which are common in the legs.)
Varicoceles usually develop slowly, and may not cause symptoms. They are more common in men between 15 and 25 years old and are most often seen on the left side of the scrotum. Varicoceles are often the cause of infertility in men.
The sudden appearance of a varicocele in an older man may be caused by a kidney tumor, which can block blood flow to a vein.
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