Role of the Toxic Metal Cadmium in the Mechanism Producing Infertility With a Varicocele
Role of the Toxic Metal Cadmium in the Mechanism Producing Infertility With a Varicocele
Varicose veins in the scrotum (varicocele) are responsible for >20% of male infertility in
 the US. Varicocele are associated with decreased sperm number and markedly reduced sperm
 fertilizing ability. Surgical repair or removal of varicocele restores fertility in only 1/3
 of cases. The goal of this study is to identify markers that predict the outcome of variocele
 correction. This would offer considerable health cost savings.

 Based on preliminary findings, we will obtain testis biopsies and semen specimens from
 infertile men with varicocele and prospectively examining the levels of cadmium, a toxic
 metal, and expression of genes required for normal sperm function. The semen and biopsies
 will be obtained during clinically dictated procedures. Cadmium and gene expression will be
 compared with response to varicocele repair (i.e., increased sperm production; pregnancy).
-  Healthy male with varicocele (grades 2 [palpable] or 3 [visible, palpable]) and no
 other diagnosed cause for infertility

 -  Non-smoker

 -  Actively desiring children but never having initiated a pregnancy

 -  Female partner having no unresolved fertility issues