Hydrocele

Background

  • Accumulation of fluid around the testis
  • Most common cause of painless scrotal swelling in children
    • Secondary to persistent processus vaginalis
  • Most are right sided
  • Most resorb by 18-24 months of age
  • Acute symptomatic hydroceles are not benign, require workup

Differential Diagnosis

Testicular Diagnoses

Evaluation

Management

  • None indicated

Disposition

  • Referral to urologist
  • Hydroceles that persisted >1 year or in patients >18 months should undergo ultrasonography to rule out tumor vs inflammatory etiology

See Also

References