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Ultrasound features of spermatic cord hydrocele in children
Insights
Ultrasound (US) is a highly accurate tool for diagnosing spermatic cord hydrocele in children presenting with inguinal swelling. This imaging technique effectively differentiates it from other potential causes like inguinal hernia.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Pediatric Urology
Background:
- Inguinal swelling or mass in children often raises concern for inguinal hernia.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the diagnostic value of ultrasound (US) for spermatic cord hydrocele.
- To determine the accuracy of US in identifying spermatic cord hydrocele as a cause of inguinal swelling in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of clinical and ultrasound findings in 27 children diagnosed with spermatic cord hydrocele.
- Correlation of US diagnoses with surgical exploration or clinical follow-up.
Main Results:
- Ultrasound correctly diagnosed encysted hydrocele in 24 of 27 cases and funicular hydrocele in 3 cases.
- Surgical exploration confirmed the US diagnosis in 23 children.
- Ultrasound demonstrated internal septa in the fluid collection in four patients.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound is a sensitive and accurate imaging modality for diagnosing spermatic cord hydrocele in children.
- US effectively excludes other potential causes of inguinal masses or swelling in the pediatric population.
Abstract:
The aim was to evaluate the value of ultrasound diagnosis of spermatic cord hydrocele as a cause of inguinal swelling or mass in children. Clinical and ultrasound (US) findings and surgical procedures of 27 children with spermatic cord hydrocele were reviewed. All children, except one, were referred for US because of suspected inguinal hernia, hydrocele or inguinal mass. In one child, the US examination was performed to confirm the diagnosis of a spermatic cord hydrocele. An encysted hydrocele was diagnosed in 24 out of 27 cases, whereas a funicular type of spermatic cord hydrocele was found in the remaining 3 cases. Internal septa were seen within the fluid mass in four patients. 23 children underwent surgical exploration that confirmed the US diagnosis. Three children with encysted-type hydrocele were only followed clinically and by US, and one was lost from follow-up. US examination is a very sensitive and accurate method for diagnosis of this entity and for exclusion of other lesions in this region.
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