The application of intrascrotal deep body temperature measurement for the noninvasive diagnosis of varicoceles.

The authors used intrascrotal deep body (intratesticular) temperature measurement in an attempt to make the diagnosis of varicoceles more objective. Two hundred five male patients complaining of infertility were classified into three groups: group A consisted of 84 patients with varicocele; group B of 66 patients without varicocele; and group C of 55 patients after varicocelectomy. The bilateral intrascrotal temperatures were recorded in the supine position and then monitored continuously in the standing position. The maximum temperatures in both positions were compared between each group. The mean temperature of the varicocele group was higher than that of the other two groups in the standing position. The authors studied the difference in temperature (delta T) due to postural change from supine to standing. The mean delta T of the left testis was +0.78 degrees C in the varicocele group, whereas it was approximately -0.5 degrees C in the other two groups. The authors conclude that deep body temperature provides a practical index of the intrascrotal temperature and is useful as one of the objective, clinical criteria for the diagnosis of varicocele.