Clinical Trial: Role of the Toxic Metal Cadmium in the Mechanism Producing Infertility With a Varicocele

Study Status: Completed
Recruit Status: Completed
Study Type: Observational

Official Title: Increased Testicular Cd2+ & Infertility With Varicocele ( a Varicose Vein in the Scrotum)

Brief Summary:

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).

Detailed Summary:
Sponsor: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)

Current Primary Outcome:

Original Primary Outcome:

Current Secondary Outcome:

Original Secondary Outcome:

Information By: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)

Dates:
Date Received: August 27, 2002
Date Started: May 2000
Date Completion: April 2005
Last Updated: September 1, 2006
Last Verified: September 2006