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 varicoceele associated infertility managed in UMTH between January 2007 and December 2011 were studied. Results: Fourty 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 varicoceles were 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 hyperprolatinaemia 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.