A hydrocele is a type of swelling in the scrotum or the pouch of skin that holds the testicles. This swelling generally occurs when the sac surrounding the testicles fills with fluid. Hydrocele often isn’t painful or harmful and can be left alone if it does not cause any symptoms. However, if your scrotum looks swollen, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider about it. Hydroceles are common among newborn babies and usually resolve on its own by age 1. But hydrocele can also occur in adults due to an injury within the scrotum or other health problems.

Before treatment, your urologist will likely perform a series of simple diagnostic tests. These tests are generally performed to determine the severity of your hydrocele and assess your overall health. To diagnose hydrocele, your doctor will perform a simple physical examination.

If you have hydrocele, your scrotum will look swollen. Your urologist will also ask some questions regarding your medical and surgical history and if you have any pre-existing medications. Your surgeon may also enquire about any injuries you may have suffered around the scrotum that could have caused your hydrocele. Alongside, to better understand your condition, your urologist may also perform some tests such as:

• Transillumination: Transillumination is a simple test in which a light source is placed against the scrotum to detect the composition of hydrocele. If there is presence of fluid in the scrotum, the light will pass through this fluid and cause your scrotum to light up. However, if scrotal swelling is due to a solid mass, the light will not pass through the scrotum.


• Ultrasound: In some cases, an ultrasound may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the size and characteristics of the hydrocele. Ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to make pictures of organs, tissues other structures inside your body.


• Routine blood test: In some cases, hydrocele can be caused by infections such as syphilis and epididymitis. A blood test will help your urologist detect such an infection and provide relevant treatment.