Hydrocoele

Question 1

Define Hydrocoele

Answer 1

Collection of serous fluid in the layers of the membrane (tunica vaginalis) that surrounds testes and spermatic cord
2 forms-communicating and non communicating

communicating-linked with peritoneal cavity, allowing fluid to flow
Non-communicating-closed, and caused by more fluid being produced than absorbed

Question 2

Aetiology and risk factors of Hydrocoele

Answer 2

Most are congenital and paediatric (1st year of life)
adult ones are acquired, 2nd are to infection, torsion, epididymis –tend to be non communicating
communicating can occur due to raised abdominal pressure

risk factor-
male
premature baby
soft tissue disorders
increase abdominal pressure
testicular cancer

Question 3

Epidiemology of Hydrocoele

Answer 3

Occurs in male and occasional female
more common in children (communicating)
Non -communicating in adults

Question 4

Signs and Sx of Hydrocoele

Answer 4

Scrotal mass
Can be transilluminated

can feel bigger after abdominal strain (cough/squat etc)

Should be very soft, no lumps attached to testicule-should be worried about cancer

Question 5

investigations of Hydrocele

Answer 5

Clinical diagnosis usually

can reassure patients to do USS, but should feel like water on feeling