Etymed
varicocele
Definition
A swelling or herniation of veins, typically occurring in the scrotum or spermatic cord
Clinical context
A 28-year-old male presents with a painless swelling in his scrotum that has been progressively getting larger over several months. On examination, he has a 'bag of worms' appearance of the scrotum with dilated, tortuous veins. The varicocele is more prominent when standing and disappears when lying flat.
Mnemonic
VARICOCELE - Veins And Reproduction In Caudal Extension, Left side more common