Hydrocele Flashcards
def
collection of fluid between the layers of the membrane which surrounds the testis or spermatic cord
what types of hydrocele are there
communicating non-communicating (simple)
what is communicating hydrocele
a patent processus vaginalis connects the peritoneum with the tunica vaginalis, this allows peritoneal fluid to flow freely between structures
what is non communicating hydrocele
the processus vaginalis is closed and more fluid is being produced by the tunica vaginalis than is being absorbed
what complications are associated with communicating hydrocele
if connection is large, abdominal contents may enter the groin, this is called an inguinal hernia
what is a direct inguinal hernia
hernial sac lies medial to the inferior epigastric artery and the deep inguinal ring
what is an indirect hernia
hernial sac lies lateral to the inferior epigastric artery
epi
males>females
infants - associated with indirect inguinal hernia
adults - testicular malignancies
aetiology
paediatric hydroceles - congenital
adult hydroceles - acquired
what are causes (acquired) of non-communicating hydrocele in adults
secondary to infection, inflammation (epididymitis), malignancy (testicular)
testicular torsion and trauma
what are causes (acquired) of communicating hydrocele
due to increased intra-abdominal pressure
what is a risk factor of communicating hydrocele
CTDs
risk factors
male
infants or adults with increased intraperitoneal fluid + pressure (peritoneal dialysis and ascites)
CTDs
testicular malignancy
history
patient complains of scrotal mass (soft mass if large communication, tense mass if small communication)
variation in scrotal mass size (increased size with activities such as coughing, straining, at the end of the day, decreased size in the morning after lying flat)
examination
scrotal mass
transillumination (fluid)
