Hydrocele

Illness Description

Hydrocele (testicular water) is the accumulation of fluid between the layers of the testicle’s membrane, resulting in fluid buildup in the scrotum. This condition is more common in newborns as a congenital issue, but acquired hydrocele can occur due to an inflammatory process or trauma.

Cause of the Illness

Normally, before birth, the testicles descend from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum. A membrane surrounding the testicles contains fluid. As the testicles descend, this membrane usually closes, and the fluid absorbs. Sometimes, this absorption completes within one year, known as non-communicating hydrocele. In some cases, the membrane does not close, allowing fluid to flow into the abdominal cavity when scrotal pressure increases, resulting in communicating hydrocele.

Risk Factors

Newborns, especially premature infants, have a higher risk of developing hydrocele. In adults, risk factors include infectious diseases (including sexually transmitted diseases), testicular trauma, and neoplastic diseases.

Symptoms

The main symptom of hydrocele is swelling of the scrotum, usually on one side. If fluid accumulation is significant, the scrotal skin may stretch. Pain is not typical.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes clarifying the signs of the disease, performing a physical examination (examination and palpation of the genital organs), and noting a painless, soft, and elastic scrotal formation. Diaphanoscopy, which involves illuminating the scrotum to determine the nature of the fluid, assists in diagnosis if the fluid transilluminates.

Treatment

For adults, determining and addressing the cause of hydrocele is crucial. One method involves fluid removal during puncture using a special needle, but fluid often reaccumulates over time. The typical treatment for adult hydrocele is surgical, involving a procedure called hydrocelectomy. The prognosis with appropriate treatment is very favorable.