Varicocele-Malignant Tumor of the Testis-Torsion of the Testis-Processus Vaginalis

Varicocele

A varicocele is a condition in which the veins of the pampiniform plexus are elongated and dilated. It is a common disorder in adolescents and young adults, with most occurring on the left side. This is thought to be because the right testicular vein joins the low-pressure inferior vena cava, whereas the left vein joins the left renal vein, in which the venous pressure is higher. Rarely, malignant disease of the left kidney extends along the renal vein and blocks the exit of the testicular vein. A rapidly developing left-sided variocele should therefore always lead one to examine the left kidney.

 

Malignant Tumor of the Testis

A malignant tumor of the testis spreads upward via the lymph vessels to the lumbar (para-aortic) lymph nodes at the level of the first lumbar vertebra. It is only later, when the tumor spreads locally to involve the tissues and skin of the scrotum, that the superficial inguinal lymph nodes are involved. The testis may be subject to the following congenital anomalies.

Torsion of the Testis

Torsion of the testis is a rotation of the testis around the spermatic cord within the scrotum. It is often associated with an excessively large tunica vaginalis. Torsion commonly occurs in active young men and children and is accompanied by severe pain. If not treated quickly, the testicular artery may be occluded, followed by necrosis of the testis
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Processus Vaginalis

The formation of the processus vaginalis and its passage through the lower part of the anterior abdominal wall with the formation of the inguinal canal in both sexes were described elsewhere . Normally, the upper part becomes obliterated just before birth and the lower part remains as the tunica vaginalis.