Varicocele in younger as risk factor for inguinal hernia and for chronic venous disease in older: preliminary results of a prospective cohort study.

ABSTRACT Introduction Varicocele, Inguinal Hernia and Chronic Venous Insufficiency are often associated. Varicocele has its maximum prevalence in younger age while hernia and chronic venous disease appear later. Aim of this study is to analyse the relationship between these conditions. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted. Study consisted of two groups of male patients. Group A was composed of patients with varicocele, while Group B was composed of patients with problems other than varicocele. Both groups were followed over time and were assessed for the onset of signs and symptoms related to inguinal hernia and chronic venous disease. Results Preliminary results showed a positive correlation between the presence of varicocele in younger and the possible risk of hernia and / or chronic venous disease in later age. Conclusions Prelminary results suggest that varicocele in younger appears to be an early marker of progression for a connective tissues related disease in later age.

Introduction Varicocele, Inguinal Hernia and Chronic Venous Insufficiency are often associated. Varicocele has its maximum prevalence in younger age while hernia and chronic venous disease appear later. Aim of this study is to analyse the relationship between these conditions. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted. Study consisted of two groups of male patients. Group A was composed of patients with varicocele, while Group B was composed of patients with problems other than varicocele. Both groups were followed over time and were assessed for the onset of signs and symptoms related to inguinal hernia and chronic venous disease. Results Preliminary results showed a positive correlation between the presence of varicocele in younger and the possible risk of hernia and / or chronic venous disease in later age. Conclusions Prelminary results suggest that varicocele in younger appears to be an early marker ofprogression for a connective tissues related disease in later age.