The Influence of Varicocele on Testis in Children

Objective:To determine the influence of varicocele on testis in children.Methods:Forty-three children with varicocele were studied.Bilateral testicular volumes were measured by B-ultrasonography before operation in 22 cases and 28 after operation.The afletted testicular specimens were studied under light microscope in 13 cases and electron microscope in 9.Results:The volume of affected testis was significantly smaller than that of the normal testis preoperatively (P＜0.01).After operation the volume of affected testis enlarged but it was still smaller than the other side and it was close to the other side 2 years later.Tubular sclerosis and premature germcall sloughing were observed on 76.9% of affected testis specimens and pathological changes in Sertoli cell and Leydig cell were observed on 33.3%.Conclusions:Varicocele brings about retardation and histological changes of the testis.The testicular volume regained gradually after operation.An early treatment is necessary for normal development of testis in children with varicocele. Key words: Varicocele; Testis