Hydrocele

What Is It?

Several layers of tissue surround the testicles and help lubricate the testicles within the scrotum. Excess fluid may develop in between these layers resulting in a fluid collection around the testicle (hydrocele). Hydroceles may develop after testicular infection, inflammation or injury.

Symptoms of a Hydrocele

Individuals with a hydrocele may experience discomfort or pain when the hydrocele is large or becomes infected. Most hydroceles do not cause any symptoms (asymptomatic).

Evaluation and Treatment

Scrotal swelling or testicular enlargement should be evaluated by a urologist because other medical conditions may be present.

A history and physical examination is performed to evaluate for predisposing conditions.
If a hydrocele is suspected, but the diagnosis is uncertain, a scrotal ultrasound is usually obtained.
If the hydrocele is large, infected, and/or causing pain, treatment is indicated. Needle drainage is not effective in treating a hydrocele. A hydrocelectomy is an outpatient surgical procedure performed to remove the hydrocele.