Hydrocele (Fluid in the Scrotum)
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid between the layers of tissue that surround the testicle. These tissues secrete and reabsorb fluid. When an imbalance in this process occurs, hydroceles can form. This imbalance can be caused by a variety of things, including infection, torsion of the testicle, appendiceal torsion, and cancer of the testicle. These hydroceles resolve when the underlying condition is treated.
However, many hydroceles arise over long periods of time, and their cause can be uncertain. These are called idiopathic hydroceles. They can be small, such that one can still feel the testicle and the other scrotal contents. They can also become very large (up to several liters), making examination of the testicle impossible. Even with these larger ones, if the patient is not having any symptoms, treatment is not necessary. For the patient who complains of pain and discomfort, treatment may be required, which involves removing the sac of the hydrocele.
Hydroceles in infants are called "communicating" since they allow for flow of fluid from the abdomen (peritoneal cavity) into the scrotal sac. This is caused by a patent processuss vaginalis. Surgical repair is generally advised in these children.
| Service Name | Appointment |
|---|---|
| Urology - Adult | |
| General Urology | A. Alfred Taubman Health Care Center | 734-936-7030 |
| Brighton Health Center | 734-936-7030 |
| Livonia Center for Specialty Care | 734-936-7030 |
| Ypsilanti Health Center | 734-936-7030 |
| Male Infertility Program and Sexual Dysfunction - Briarwood Building 1 | 734-936-7030 |
