Hydrocele in children

What is hydrocele in children?

Hydrocele in children is a collection of fluid between the membranes surrounding the testicle, resulting in swelling in the scrotum. The condition is common in infants and is often caused by a congenital opening between the abdominal cavity and the scrotum that has not closed properly. This opening allows fluid to pass into the scrotum, causing the swelling.

Symptoms of hydrocele include swelling that may vary in size throughout the day and often becomes more noticeable when the child cries or is active. The condition is usually painless and rarely requires urgent treatment. In most cases, the hydrocele resolves on its own within the first year of life.

Types of hydrocele in children

There are two main types of hydrocele in children:

Communicating hydrocele:

 This type occurs when there is an open connection between the abdominal cavity and the scrotum. Fluid can move back and forth, which means that the swelling may change in size throughout the day. This type of hydrocele is more likely to require treatment, as the connection does not always close on its own.

Non-communicating hydrocele:

In this type, the fluid is trapped in the scrotum without any connection to the abdominal cavity. It is more likely to resolve on its own as the fluid is gradually absorbed by the body.

Distinguishing between the two types is important, as it affects the treatment plan and the likelihood of spontaneous resolution.

Is hydrocele dangerous?

Hydrocele in children is usually harmless and rarely causes pain. In infants, the condition often resolves on its own. The child should be examined if the swelling increases, causes discomfort, does not decrease with age or if an inguinal hernia is suspected.

Can hydrocele go away on its own?

Yes. In young children, a hydrocele often resolves on its own, particularly during the first year of life. If the swelling persists, becomes larger or clearly changes in size, the child may need an assessment to determine whether treatment is necessary.

What is the difference between a hydrocele and an inguinal hernia?

A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle or in the scrotum. With an inguinal hernia, abdominal contents, such as part of the intestine, may pass through an opening from the abdominal cavity. An inguinal hernia is more likely to require surgical treatment because, in rare cases, the tissue can become trapped.

Does hydrocele affect fertility?

A typical hydrocele in children does not normally affect fertility. Most children develop normally. If the swelling is large, persistent or unusual, the child should be assessed to ensure that it is not caused by another condition.

When does hydrocele require treatment?

In many cases, hydrocele in children resolves on its own within the first year of life. However, treatment may be necessary if:

• The swelling does not decrease after the first year of life.
• The swelling becomes larger over time.
• An inguinal hernia is also suspected, which may require surgery.



Doctors typically assess the need for treatment based on the child’s age, the severity of the symptoms and the risk of complications. If treatment is necessary, surgery is usually performed to close the connection to the abdominal cavity and remove the fluid.

How is hydrocele diagnosed?

Hydrocele is usually diagnosed through a clinical examination. The doctor assesses the size and consistency of the swelling and whether it changes during the day. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may perform a transillumination test, in which a light source is held against the scrotum to determine whether the fluid allows light to pass through.

If the diagnosis is uncertain, or if another condition such as an inguinal hernia is suspected, an ultrasound scan may be used to obtain a more detailed image of the area. This examination is painless and provides precise information about the location of the fluid and any other abnormalities.

What does the treatment of hydrocele involve?

If treatment for hydrocele is necessary, it is typically performed surgically. The operation, known as a hydrocelectomy, involves closing the connection to the abdominal cavity and removing the accumulated fluid. The procedure is performed as day surgery, meaning that the child can return home the same day.



After the operation, mild swelling and discomfort may occur for a short period, but most children quickly return to their normal activities. Complications are rare, and the operation has a high success rate. Parents should follow the doctor’s instructions carefully to support a quick and uncomplicated recovery.