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Varicocoele G029

Document
Last amended 
29 August 2019
Current RMA Instruments

Reasonable Hypothesis SOP

79 of 2019

Balance of Probabilities SOP

80 of 2019

Changes from previous Instruments

SOP Bulletin 210

ICD Coding
  • ICD-9-CM Codes: 456.4
  • ICD-10-AM Codes: I86.1
Brief description

A varicocoele (alternative spelling - varicocele) is the equivalent of varicose veins, affecting the network of veins draining the testicle.  It usually presents as a “bag of worms” mass in the upper scrotum.  It is usually left-sided.

Confirming the diagnosis

The diagnosis is made clinically and can be made by a treating GP.

The relevant medical specialist is a urologist.

Additional diagnoses covered by SOP
  • Scrotal varices
Conditions excluded from SOP
  • Varices of other sites
Clinical onset

The condition first appears at puberty and may become larger over time.  It may be asymptomatic or present with a dull ache.

Clinical worsening

Worsening would be evidenced by enlargement of the varicocoele and an increase in symptoms.