Hydrocoele

Question 1

Define hydrocoele.

Answer 1

A hydrocele is a collection of serous fluid between the layers of the membrane (tunica vaginalis) that surrounds the testis or along the spermatic cord.

Question 2

Explain the aetiology/risk factors of hydrocoele.

Answer 2

Male sex
Prematurity and low birth weight
Infants <6 months of age
Infants whose testes descend relatively late
Increased intraperitoneal fluid or pressure
Inflammation or injury within the scrotum
Testicular cancer
Connective tissue disorders

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of hydrocoele.

Answer 3

Hydroceles predominantly occur in males and are rare in females. They are common in male infants and children and in many cases are associated with an indirect inguinal hernia.

Question 4

Recognise the presenting symptoms of hydrocoele. Recognise the signs of hydrocoele on physical examination.

Answer 4

Presence of risk factors
Scrotal mass
Transillumination
Enlargement of scrotal mass following activity
Variation in scrotal mass during the day

Question 5

Identify appropriate investigations for hydrocoele and interpret the results.

Answer 5

Clinical diagnosis
Ultrasound