Are varicoceles associated with increased deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation?
OBJECTIVE
To perform a literature search on the association between varicocele and sperm DNA fragmentation.


METHODS
Systematic review.


METHODS
Men with a varicocele and infertility.


METHODS
Varicocele repair.


METHODS
Does the presence of a varicocele increase seminal oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation?


RESULTS
In men with a varicocele increased levels of reactive oxygen species and sperm DNA damage can be found. This is probably related to defective spermatogenesis in these patients. Seminal oxidative stress is believed to be the source of sperm DNA damage. Patients with a varicocele and oligospermia may also have a diminished seminal antioxidant capacity. After varicocele repair sperm DNA fragmentation decreases.


CONCLUSIONS
Varicocele is associated with sperm DNA damage, and this sperm pathology may be secondary to varicocele-mediated oxidative stress. The beneficial effect of varicocelectomy on sperm DNA damage further supports the premise that varicocele may impair sperm DNA integrity.
Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. ziniarmand@yahoo.com
Armand
A
Zini
Gert
G
Dohle
D004247:DNA / Q000378:metabolism; D004249:DNA Damage / Q000502:physiology; D053938:DNA Fragmentation; D006801:Humans; D007248:Infertility, Male / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics; D008297:Male; D018384:Oxidative Stress / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000378:metabolism; D014646:Varicocele / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics* / Q000628:therapy
D004247:DNA