P-26: Comparison of Serum Testosterone Level between Men with and without Varicocele

Background: Varicocele suggests that in addition to effects on spermatogenesis, varicocele also impairs testicular Leydig cell function with a consequential decrease in testosterone production; correction of the varicocele may result in improved serum testosterone levels. Materials and Methods: We measured preoperative serum testosterone levels in 40 infertile men with varicoceles varicocele (grade III and II) and in 50 fertile men without varicoceles who served as a comparison group. The serum testosterone levels between groups were compared by age (range 23-46) that underwent varicocelectomy because of infertility. Patients were categorized into two age groups (Less than 35 years and More than 35 years). Results: No statistically significant changes were noted in serum testosterone levels for any of the groups. The mean of serum testosterone levels before surgery in infertile men with varicocele and fertile men were respectively 569(212) vs. 572(223) ng/dl (p = 0.95). No statistically significant changes were noted in serum testosterone levels for any of the groups. This difference persisted when analyzed by age. After surgical varicocelectomy, mean serum testosterone levels were significantly increased compared with preoperative levels. The serum testosterone levels significantly increased after repair from 568 (212) to 703 (251) ng/dL (p = 0.004). Conclusion: These findings suggest that varicocele is a significant risk factor for androgen deficiency and that repair may increase testosterone levels in men with varicocele and low testosterone levels.