VARICOCELE SIZE AND SEMEN QUALITY

In this study we have described our varicocele cases in terms of associated symptoms/signs. In addition, we have tested the correlation between semen parameters and varicocele grades and compared the relative frequencies of associated symptoms/signs in different varicocele grades. 1 19 referred cases of varicocele were categorized based on clinical criteria into 3 grades by one examiner. The relative frequencies of associated symptoms/signs of the grades were compared. 52 of the cases whose semen analyses were performed at the same laboratory were included for comparison of semen parameters. Most of the cases were single conscripts. Age range was 1 8 to 38 years and the mean age was 23 years. Pain was the most common associated finding in our mostly single physically active cases. Of all the 1 19 cases, 9 were grade 1 , 63 grade 2, and 47 grade 3. Mean sperm concentration was 60.3 million per cubic centimeter. No significant difference was found in the relative frequencies of associated symptoms/signs among different grades. Difference in semen parameters among grades was negligible and not significant at 0. 1 (0.05 as well). Pain could be the most common associated finding in young single physically active varicocele cases. It seems that varicocele grade bears no significance over the relative frequencies of associated symptoms/signs. Our data is against any clinically and/or statistically significant relationship between varicocele size and semen parameters.