How To Diagnose Hydrocele in Children
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid that surrounds the testicle. It is a common condition in newborn boys, occurring in about 10% of all births. Most hydroceles resolve on their own within the first year of life. However, if the hydrocele is large or does not resolve on its own, it may need to be treated.
Symptoms of Hydrocele in Children
The most common symptom of a hydrocele is a painless swelling of the scrotum. The swelling may be small and barely noticeable, or it may be large and cause the scrotum to appear enlarged and discoloured.
Other symptoms of a hydrocele in children may include:
A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum
Pain or tenderness in the scrotum
Difficulty urinating
Fever
Causes of Hydrocele in Children
Hydroceles are caused by an accumulation of fluid in the tunica vaginalis. The tunica vaginalis is a thin membrane that surrounds the testicles and helps to produce fluid that lubricates the testicles and scrotum. In most cases, the tunica vaginalis closes after birth. However, in some cases, the tunica vaginalis remains open, allowing fluid to collect and form a hydrocele.
Risk Factors for Hydrocele in Children
Certain factors can increase a child's risk of developing a hydrocele, including:
Premature birth: Babies who are born prematurely are more likely to develop a hydrocele.
Low birth weight: Babies who are born with a low birth weight are more likely to develop a hydrocele.
Family history: Children who have a family history of hydroceles are more likely to develop the condition.
Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as heart disease, kidney disease, and liver disease, can increase the risk of developing a hydrocele.
Diagnosis of Hydrocele in Children
Hydroceles are usually diagnosed based on a physical examination. Your doctor will feel the scrotum to check for swelling and tenderness. Your doctor may also shine a light through the scrotum to see if the hydrocele is translucent.
In some cases, your doctor may order an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis of a hydrocele. An ultrasound is a painless imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body.
Treatment for Hydrocele in Children
Most hydroceles resolve on their own within the first year of life. However, if the hydrocele is large or does not resolve on its own, it may need to be treated.
Treatment for hydrocele in children may include:
Aspiration: Aspiration is a procedure in which the fluid from the hydrocele is removed using a needle and syringe. Aspiration is usually done in a doctor's office or clinic.
Surgery: Surgery is an option for treating hydroceles that are large or do not resolve on their own. Surgery is usually done in a hospital operating room.
Prognosis for Hydrocele in Children
The prognosis for hydrocele in children is generally good. Most hydroceles resolve on their own within the first year of life. Even if surgery is necessary, the success rate is high.
Prevention of Hydrocele in Children
There is no known way to prevent hydrocele in children. However, if your child is at risk for developing a hydrocele, your doctor may recommend regular checkups to monitor for the condition.
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