Is there such a thing as a water can (hydrocele) scrotum, or more specifically, can the scrotum be affected by hydrocele?

From the Guidelines

Yes, the scrotum can be affected by hydrocele, which is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid around the testicle. This condition is recognized in medical literature and clinical practice, and it is one of the potential causes of scrotal swelling or pain. According to the most recent study 1, hydrocele is listed as one of the diagnostic considerations for acute scrotum, along with other conditions such as testicular torsion, epididymoorchitis, and idiopathic scrotal edema. The study also notes that ultrasound (US) is the established first-line imaging modality for acute scrotal disease and can be used to diagnose most scrotal disorders, including hydrocele. Some key points to consider when evaluating scrotal symptoms include:

• The scrotum can be affected by various conditions, including hydrocele, epididymitis, orchitis, and edema
• Hydrocele is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid around the testicle
• Ultrasound (US) is the established first-line imaging modality for acute scrotal disease
• If you're experiencing scrotal symptoms such as swelling, pain, or unusual discharge, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, as these symptoms could indicate infections, inflammatory conditions, or other medical issues that require specific treatments ranging from antibiotics to surgical intervention depending on the underlying cause, as noted in 1 and 1. It's also important to note that self-diagnosis of genital conditions is not recommended, and proper medical evaluation is essential for appropriate care, as emphasized in 1 and 1.

From the Research

Hydrocele and Scrotum Affected

• Hydrocele is a type of swelling in the scrotum that occurs when fluid builds up in the thin sheath surrounding a testicle, according to studies on the treatment of hydroceles 2, 3, 4.
• The scrotum can be affected by hydrocele, as the fluid accumulation can cause the scrotum to become swollen or enlarged, as seen in cases where hydrocele aspiration and sclerotherapy were used as treatment options 3, 4.
• Hydroceles can be treated with various methods, including aspiration and sclerotherapy, which have shown to be effective in reducing scrotal size and discomfort in patients with hydroceles 3, 4.

Causes and Complications

• Hydroceles can be caused by various factors, including varicocele repair, as seen in a case report where a patient developed a hydrocele immediately after varicocele repair 5.
• The development of hydrocele after varicocele repair is a common complication, with the onset of hydrocele formation varying from one week to several years after the surgery 5.
• It is essential to differentiate between testicular edema and hydrocele to ensure proper treatment and management of the condition 5.

Treatment Options

• Aspiration and sclerotherapy are viable treatment options for hydroceles, with success rates ranging from 75% to 94% after a single treatment or multiple treatments 3, 4.
• The choice of sclerosing agent can affect the success rate of the treatment, with sodium tetradecyl sulphate (STDS) showing a high cure rate after a single injection and low side effect rates 3.
• Hydrocelectomy is also a treatment option for hydroceles, but it may be associated with higher complication rates and longer recovery times compared to aspiration and sclerotherapy 3, 4.