This is a collection of fluid in some part of processus vaginalis usually tunica. It can occur in children and adults. Hydrocoele could be primary or secondary to testicular diseases like inflammation, infections or malignancy. It can be unilateral or bilateral.

Salient features

•           Cystic swelling usually translucent, it is possible to reach above the swelling and it is not possible to feel the testis distinct from the swelling.

•           Although there is history of reduction of size in children, it is not reducible

•           If the hydrocele is lax and of moderate size, it may be due to epididymo - orchitis, torsion, or testicular tumors.

Treatment

•           In infants, it is advised to wait till the age of two years to allow spontaneous resolution.

•           Beyond the age of two years, the surgical treatment entails herniotomy by the inguinal approach.

•           In adults, definitive treatment requires drainage of the fluid along with eversion of the sac with or without excision of the same. This can be done under local or regional anaesthesia.