Hydrocele

Overview

A hydrocele (HI-droe-seel) is a type of swelling in the scrotum, the pouch of skin that holds the testicles. This swelling occurs when fluid collects in the thin sac that surrounds a testicle. Hydroceles are common in newborns and often resolve without treatment by age 1. However, older children and adults can develop a hydrocele due to injury within the scrotum or other health issues. Typically, a hydrocele isn’t painful or harmful and might not require treatment. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider if the scrotum appears swollen.

Types of Hydrocele

1. Communicating Hydrocele: This type has contact with the fluids in the abdominal cavity. It occurs when the processus vaginalis, a thin membrane, fails to close during fetal development, allowing abdominal fluid to flow into the scrotum.
2. Non-communicating Hydrocele: In this type, the processus vaginalis closes, but there is still some fluid around the testicle in the scrotum. This type can be present at birth or develop later in life.

Causes of Hydrocele

Hydroceles can develop due to various reasons:

• In Newborns:
  • During fetal development, the testicles descend from the abdomen into the scrotum, bringing a part of the abdominal lining with them. This lining usually closes before birth or shortly after. If it doesn’t, fluid can accumulate, forming a hydrocele.
• In Adults:
  • Injury: Trauma to the scrotum can lead to fluid accumulation.
  • Inflammation: Infections in the testicle or the epididymis (the coiled tube at the back of the testicle) can cause inflammation and fluid buildup.

Risk Factors of Hydrocele

Several factors can increase the risk of developing a hydrocele:

• Premature Birth: Infants born prematurely are at higher risk.
• Injury to the Scrotum: Trauma can lead to fluid accumulation.
• Infections: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other infections can cause inflammation and hydrocele formation.

Symptoms of Hydrocele

Preventions of Hydrocele

Preventing hydroceles involves managing risk factors:

• Avoiding Injury: Protect the scrotum from trauma.
• Treating Infections Promptly: Address infections quickly to prevent inflammation.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular medical check-ups can help detect and manage conditions early.

Diagnosis of Hydrocele

Diagnosing a hydrocele involves several steps:

• Physical Examination: The healthcare provider will examine the scrotum for swelling.
• Transillumination: Shining a light through the scrotum can help determine if fluid is present.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound can provide detailed images of the scrotum and help confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for Hydrocele

Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the hydrocele:

• Observation: In infants, hydroceles often resolve on their own.
• Surgery: In adults or persistent cases, surgery may be necessary. Procedures include:
  • Hydrocelectomy: Surgical removal of the hydrocele.
  • Aspiration: Using a needle to drain the fluid, though this is less common.

When to seek medical attention ?

It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if:

• The scrotum appears swollen.
• There is discomfort or pain.
• The swelling persists or worsens.