Genetics
Varicoceles are more common in men with a family history of the condition, but this is not always the case. An individual can still develop the condition even they don’t have a family history of varicoceles. So, while family history may be a risk factor for varicocele development, it’s not the only factor.
However, more research is needed to confirm this link and to identify which specific genes may be involved. Y-linked genes play a critical role in the testicular determination and can influence sperm production. Y-chromosome microdeletions may be responsible for the severe bilateral testicular damage observed in varicocele patients.
Another interesting aspect of varicoceles is that they are more likely to occur on the left side. This may be due to anatomical differences between the left and right sides of the body. For example, the left testicular vein drains into the left renal vein, which is larger than the right renal vein. As a result, left-sided varicoceles may be more likely to occur because there is more room for enlargement on the left side.
