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Dr. Rajesh Patel, MD.
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Ask the Doctor!
January 2010
Q:
What is a hydrocele and could it be concealing the signs of testicular cancer?
-- F. Ali, Madison Heights, MI
A:
A hydrocele is a sac of fluid that surrounds a testicle thus often leading to subsequent swelling of the scrotum. It is usually soft and smooth in texture (vs. firm and rough in cancer). Hydroceles are found in roughly 10% of male newborns, usually resolving on their own by the first year of life. Adult men can also have this condition from experiencing radiation, an infection or trauma to the scrotum.
This fluid-filled sac is typically painless and without harm. So treatment is not often necessary. Having said this, a scrotal swelling of any kind should be immediately evaluated by a physician in order to rule out other conditions, such as hernia, infection, and cancer.
In regard to your question, yes, a hydrocele can indeed conceal the signs of testicular cancer. Although rare, it is possible for both conditions to coexist. Quite often, the only symptom that may surface is just a "heavy" feeling of the scrotum. This is why it's especially important to seek immediate medical attention for any sort of noticeable testicular abnormality. Your doctor may first use a simple light to see if it shines through the scrotum or not. From there, an ultrasound may also be necessary to get a better idea of what's going on.
Although it's usually not harmful, a hydrocele can potentially cause significant disfigurement if it becomes too large. At which case, surgery or needle aspiration (fluid extraction) may be required.
Submit your questions to askthedoctor@nowoodennickels.org
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