What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Hydrocele in Adults
• Patent Processus Vaginalis

What is Adult Hydrocele? (Definition/Background Information)

• A hydrocele is a buildup of watery clear fluid around one or both testicles. It usually occurs in males over the age of 40 years
• The possible causes of an Adult Hydrocele include trauma to the testes, infection or inflammation of the testes and scrotum, and tumor of the testes
• The signs and symptoms of the condition include swelling of the scrotum and groin and uncomfortable heaviness of the testicles
• In most cases, treatment of an Adult Hydrocele is not needed, as the swelling usually subsides on its own. In a few cases, though, surgery may be required to drain the fluid
• The prognosis of Adult Hydrocele is generally very good with suitable treatment. In a majority of the individuals, there are no long-term complications
• Prevention of an Adult Hydrocele may include preventing trauma to the scrotum and reducing one’s risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD)

Who gets Adult Hydrocele? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Hydroceles are typically seen in 1 out of 100 adult males
• Frequently, Adult Hydroceles are observed in men over the 40 years of age
• The condition is observed worldwide; no race or ethnicity is particularly affected

What are the Risk Factors for Adult Hydrocele? (Predisposing Factors)

Risk factors for Hydrocele in Adults include:

• Having a sexually transmitted disease
• Injury to the scrotum
• Infection of the scrotum and testes

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Adult Hydrocele? (Etiology)

Adult Hydrocele may be caused by factors such as:

• Injury or trauma to the testes
• Infection and inflammation of the testes and scrotum
• Testicular tumor
• Ischemia, which is a lack of blood supply to the testes

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Adult Hydrocele?

The common signs and symptoms of an Adult Hydrocele include:

• Swelling of the scrotum and groin
• Uncomfortable heaviness of the testicles
• Fluctuation of testicle size

How is Adult Hydrocele Diagnosed?

An Adult Hydrocele may be diagnosed using the following methods:

• Complete evaluation of medical history, along with a thorough physical exam having special emphasis on testicular examination
• The following techniques are used to make a hydrocele diagnosis:
  • Ultrasound of scrotum
  • Blood and/or urine tests to check for an infection

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Adult Hydrocele?

The complications of Adult Hydrocele may include:

• Discomfort during sexual activity
• Pain and discomfort while walking

How is Adult Hydrocele Treated?

• No treatment may be required for an Adult Hydrocele in many cases, as the swelling usually goes away on its own
• However, in some cases, a surgical procedure to drain the fluid may be required

How can Adult Hydrocele be Prevented?

Prevention of Adult Hydrocele includes:

• Avoiding or minimizing the chances for a trauma to the scrotum
• Reducing one’s risk for contracting a sexually transmitted disease by methods such as practicing safe sex

What is the Prognosis of Adult Hydrocele? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Adult Hydrocele is generally very good in a majority of cases; long term complications are usually not observed.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Adult Hydrocele:

Congenital Hydrocele occurs in newborn male babies. Majority of the times, it resolves on its own, usually within the first two years of the child’s life.