Is vas deferens blockage congenital? Acquired causes are crucial!

As we all know, the testicles are where sperms are produced, and the discharge of sperms can only be completed with the help of the vas deferens. However, some men's vas deferens are blocked, which prevents sperms from being discharged normally, causing infertility. So, what causes the blockage of the vas deferens?

Causes

1. Congenital abnormalities

These include agenesis or dysplasia of the vas deferens, epididymal dysplasia, agenesis of the seminal vesicles, dysplasia of the prostate and ejaculatory ducts, and Müllerian or mesonephric duct cysts.

2. Inflammatory stenosis

Common infections include bilateral epididymal tuberculosis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae epididymitis and filariasis. The pathogens cause inflammation of the vas deferens, forming scars and leading to obstruction of the lumen.

3. Tumor

Obstruction of the vas deferens lumen due to compression from tumors in the vas deferens itself or adjacent organs is also one of the causes of azoospermia.

4. Traumatic or surgical injury

For example, hernia repair, hydrocele, high varicocelectomy, testicular and occult testicular surgery, etc. can lead to vas deferens obstruction due to misligation or injury. Vasectomy can also induce or aggravate vas deferens obstruction.

Clinical manifestations

The patient has a history of reproductive system infection, surgery, injury, and infertility. There may be a weakened or incomplete orgasm, painful or powerless ejaculation. Physical examination may touch the vas deferens or epididymis nodules, thickening, beaded changes, or absence.