Hydrocele
is an accumulation of fluid in any saclike cavity or duct, specifically
in the tunica vaginalis testis or along the spermatic cord. The condition
is caused by inflammation of the epididymis or testis or by lymphatic
or venous obstruction in the cord. Congental hydrocele is caused by
failure of the canal between the peritoneal cavity and the scrotum
to close completely during prenatal development. In some newborn infants
the defect may resolve spontaneously after neonatal obliteration of
the communication. Treatment for persistent hydrocele is surgery.
Aspiration is only a temporary measure and may induce secondary infection.
