Varicocele is a health issue that can affect not only adult men but also children during adolescence (ages 10-19). Since the body and testicles develop rapidly during puberty, a varicocele occurring in this period can disrupt testicular development. In accordance with the principles of pediatric and adolescent urology, approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of varicocele in adolescence must be carefully planned and managed.
How is Varicocele Detected in Adolescents?
Adolescent boys often hesitate to share the appearance of prominent veins or size differences in their testicles with their families. However, the following symptoms should be noted:
- Complaints of testicular pain in the child after sports or physical activity.
- Noticing worm-like structures on the left testicle during bathing.
- A visible difference in size between the two testicles (the left testicle remaining smaller).
When is Surgery Required?
Performing a semen analysis in adolescents may not always be feasible or appropriate. Therefore, the most critical parameter determining the decision for surgery in adolescent varicocele treatment is testicular size discrepancy (asymmetry). If ultrasonography (Doppler USG) measurements show that the left testicle is 10-20% smaller than the right testicle, microsurgical intervention should be performed to prevent future testicular atrophy. Early surgery enables catch-up growth of the testicle.