Encysted spermatic cord hydrocele: A case series

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Urology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Encysted spermatic cord hydrocele is a rare anomaly resulting from incomplete closure of the processus vaginalis.
• It presents as a painless inguinal and scrotal swelling, frequently misdiagnosed in infants and children.
• Differential diagnoses include indirect inguinal hernias, lymphadenopathy, undescended testes, and cord tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and management of encysted spermatic cord hydrocele.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Case series of five male patients aged nine months to 12 years with painless scrotal swelling.
• Physical examination including transillumination and cough impulse tests.
• Diagnostic confirmation via inguinal and scrotal ultrasonography.
• Surgical cyst excision and follow-up.

Main Results:

• All five patients presented with painless, irreducible, and non-communicating cystic masses in the inguinal and scrotal regions.
• Ultrasonography revealed anechoic cystic lesions consistent with encysted spermatic cord hydrocele.
• All patients underwent successful cyst excision with uneventful postoperative recovery and favorable outcomes at follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Encysted spermatic cord hydrocele is a rare condition that requires careful clinical evaluation and diagnostic imaging.
• Ultrasonography is crucial for differentiating it from other inguinal pathologies, especially indirect inguinal hernias.
• Surgical management is recommended for persistent or enlarging hydroceles, yielding optimal outcomes.