Hypospermatogenesis, Male Infertility, Non-Obstructive Azoospermia, Varicocele
Conditions
Keywords
Varicocele, environmental toxins, male infertility, cadmium
Brief summary
Varicose veins in the scrotum (varicocele) are responsible for \>20% of male infertility in the US. Varicocele are associated with decreased sperm number and markedly reduced sperm fertilizing ability. Surgical repair or removal of varicocele restores fertility in only 1/3 of cases. The goal of this study is to identify markers that predict the outcome of variocele correction. This would offer considerable health cost savings. Based on preliminary findings, we will obtain testis biopsies and semen specimens from infertile men with varicocele and prospectively examining the levels of cadmium, a toxic metal, and expression of genes required for normal sperm function. The semen and biopsies will be obtained during clinically dictated procedures. Cadmium and gene expression will be compared with response to varicocele repair (i.e., increased sperm production; pregnancy).
Interventions
PROCEDUREVaricocele repair
Sponsors
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
Study design
Observational model
DEFINED_POPULATION
Time perspective
PROSPECTIVE
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
MALE
Age
21 Years to 55 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Healthy male with varicocele (grades 2 \[palpable\] or 3 \[visible, palpable\]) and no other diagnosed cause for infertility * Non-smoker * Actively desiring children but never having initiated a pregnancy * Female partner having no unresolved fertility issues
Countries
United States
Outcome results
None listed