Prevalence of Abnormal Semen Parameters in Patients Presenting With Varicocele

Abstract

Background: Varicocele is a common male reproductive disorder and an important potentially reversible cause of impaired semen quality. It may adversely affect spermatogenesis through alterations in the testicular microenvironment.

Objective: To determine the frequency of abnormal semen parameters in patients presenting with varicocele.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Urology at Liaquat National Postgraduate Medical Centre over six months following ethical approval. A total of 150 male patients aged 18–80 years with clinically diagnosed varicocele were recruited through consecutive non-probability sampling. Patients with previous varicocelectomy, abnormal follicle-stimulating hormone levels, or significant testicular volume abnormalities were excluded. Demographic and clinical characteristics, including varicocele side and grade, were recorded. Semen analysis was performed to assess sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and presence of azoospermia.

Results: Among 150 patients, oligozoospermia was the most frequent semen abnormality, followed by asthenozoospermia. Teratozoospermia and azoospermia were also observed. The findings indicate that abnormalities in conventional semen parameters are common among men presenting with clinically diagnosed varicocele.

Conclusion: Abnormal semen parameters are frequently encountered in patients with varicocele. Routine semen analysis should therefore form an important component of reproductive evaluation in these patients, particularly when infertility is suspected. Early identification of semen abnormalities may support appropriate counselling and individualized management.