Varicocele As A Risk Factor For Male Infertility: A Clinical And Epidemiological Study

Abstract

Varicocele is one of the most common factors of male infertility, affecting sperm quality and reproductive potential. The purpose of this clinical and epidemiological study is to evaluate the incidence of varicocele among men with infertility, including clinical and subclinical forms, and to identify their effect on spermogram parameters, DNA fragmentation, and hormonal profile. The study involved 200 men with infertility and 100 control participants with normal fertility. The diagnosis of varicocele was carried out using physical examination and ultrasound examination with color Doppler mapping. The results showed that varicocele was detected in 66% of patients with infertility, including 18% with a subclinical form. Varicocele was associated with a significant decrease in sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, as well as an increase in the DNA fragmentation index. Hormonal changes indicated a functional strain on the reproductive system. The data obtained confirm the need for a comprehensive diagnosis of varicocele, including subclinical forms, for effective management of patients with male infertility.