Varicocele associated infertility in maiduguri north eastern nigeria

Background: Infertility is a major concern in clinical practice due to its impact on the psychosocial life of the patient. Varicocele has been established as a leading cause of infertility. The study reviewed varicocele associated infertility and the outcome of its management. Aim: To review varicocele associated infertility and the effect of varicocelectomy on the outcome of management. Patient and methods: All patients with varicocele associated infertility managed in UMTH between January 2007 and December 2011 were studied. Results: Forty seven patients were analysed. Age ranged from 21 – 53 years with a mean of 37.28 years and SD of 6.89, with peak age group 31 – 40 years. Associated medical conditions were hypertension, diabetes and obesity. Bilateral varicocele was seen in 37. Seminal fluid analysis showed normal in 27.66%, oligospermia in 32.30% and azospermia in 34.04%. Hormonal assay revealed normal findings in 44.68%, hyperprolactinaemia in 23.40%, low testosterone in 19.15% and both hyperprolactinaemia and low testosterone in 12.76%. Testicular biopsy showed normal 6.38%, arrest of spermatogenesis at various stages in 14.89%, while in 12.77% there was no evidence of viable spermatogenesis. Responses to treatment were complete in 34.04%, partial in 38.30%, while 27.66% did not respond to treatment. The optimum response was seen 18 months after varicocelectomy.