Hydrocele
Hydrocele Causes
In most cases, the sac closes in and the fluid is absorbed. However, if the fluid is retained after the sac closes, the condition is known as a noncommunicating hydrocele. Because the sac is closed off, fluid can't flow back into the abdomen. Often the fluid gets absorbed within a year.
Hydrocele Definition
A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac surrounding a testicle that leads to swelling of the scrotum, the loose bag of skin underneath the penis.
Hydrocele Diagnosis
Screening and diagnosis entails a physical exam, which may show an enlarged scrotum that isn't tender to the touch. Pressure to the abdomen or scrotum may grow or shrink the fluid-filled sac, which may indicate an associated inguinal hernia. Because the fluid in a hydrocele often is clear, the doctor may shine a light through the scrotum (transillumination). With a hydrocele, the light will outline the testicle, indicating that clear fluid envelops it.
Hydrocele Symptoms and Signs
Generally the only indication of a hydrocele is a painless swelling of one or both testicles.
Hydrocele Treatment
For baby boys, hydroceles generally disappear on their own within a year. If a hydrocele doesn't disappear after a year or if it continues to enlarge, it may be required to be surgically removed. For adult males as well, hydroceles typically go away on their own. A hydrocele requires treatment only if it gets large enough to result to discomfort or disfigurement. Then it may need to be taken out.