Hydrocoele in children

What is it?

The testicle in the scrotum is surrounded by different membranes. A hydrocoele is an accumulation of fluid between two of these membranes. Sometimes, there is swelling of the scrotum or hydrocoele without a specific reason; sometimes there is swelling with an open connection to the abdominal cavity (hydrocoele communicans).

Which factors influence a hydrocoele?

• Trauma (blow, impact, accident)
• Infection
• Varicocoele surgery
• Testicular torsion

Up to the age of 2, a hydrocoele can sometimes disappear on its own. Afterwards, an operation will be needed. In young children, a hydrocoele communicans is always suspected: a hydrocoele with an open connection to the abdominal cavity. For this reason, a young child with a hydrocoele will always undergo surgery through a groin incision. In older children or adolescents with a newly developed hydrocoele, the fluid collection can be removed through an incision in the scrotum.

Latest publication date: 12/12/2023
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip