Varicocele - abnormal dilation or torsion of the scrotal veins. This condition can be surgically corrected. Diagnosis of varicocele is made by identifying "pinhead" shaped sperm when a semen analysis is done.
CONGENITAL ABNORMALITIES
Maturation Arrest Patterns - As sperm develop, they undergo a series of maturation steps. At any one of these steps, abnormalities may occur. Once the abnormality is diagnosed medical therapy may be used in an effort to help sperm mature. However, the prognosis is poor.
Hypospermatogenesis - In some patients, all of the elements of sperm production are present, but fewer sperm are produced. This will normally result in a lower number of sperm in the ejaculate. This condition can also coexist with a maturation abnormality. Although medical therapy can be used, the results are unpredictable.
Germinal Cell Aplasia - Patients with this disorder do not have germ cells in their testes and, therefore, are not able to produce sperm. No treatment exists for this disorder. Patients may choose donor insemination or adoption to achieve family-building goals.