Renal & Urology

Varicocoele

A varicocoele is dilated pampiniform venous plexus, usually left-sided and benign; treatment is not automatic and is considered mainly for selected fertility, pain or adolescent testicular-development indications.

Definition

A varicocoele is dilatation of the pampiniform venous plexus caused by venous reflux or proximal obstruction, most often on the left.

First principles

It is a clinical venous finding

A varicocoele is dilated veins of the pampiniform plexus, typically more prominent standing or with Valsalva and less prominent when supine. It is usually left-sided; a right-sided, sudden or non-decompressing swelling is atypical.

You’ve reached the end of the preview

The rest of this extended textbook page is part of full access. Create a free account to read the sample topics in full and try sample questions, then upgrade to unlock every high-yield and extended page, plus the complete question bank.

This page is exam revision material, not medical advice, and must not be used for patient care. Always check drug doses against the BNF and current guidance. Full disclaimer.