Enterohydrocele is a medical term that refers to a condition where there is a protrusion of the intestine into the scrotum via the inguinal canal, causing swelling and discomfort. The word is spelled phonetically as /ˌɛntəroʊˈhaɪdrəsiːl/, where the stress is on the third syllable. The word combines the prefix "entero-" meaning intestine, the root word "hydro-" meaning water or fluid, and the suffix "-cele" meaning hernia or swelling. Accurate spelling of medical terms like enterohydrocele is important to ensure clear communication in the medical profession.
Enterohydrocele refers to a medical condition characterized by a herniation of the peritoneal fluid and a portion of the intestine into the scrotum. As a type of hydrocele, it involves the accumulation of serous fluid in the tunica vaginalis, the double-layered sac covering the testes. However, in enterohydrocele, a segment of the bowel, mainly the small intestine, protrudes into the scrotal sac alongside the fluid.
The condition typically arises due to a weakened or congenital defect in the inguinal canal, a passage through the abdominal muscles that connects the abdomen to the scrotum in males. This canal serves as a route for the descent of the testes during fetal development and remains patent after birth in certain cases, making the individual prone to developing an enterohydrocele later in life. Symptoms may include a painless swelling in the scrotum that becomes larger when standing or coughing, as well as possible discomfort or heaviness in the affected area.
Enterohydrocele is most commonly diagnosed in infants and young children but can also occur in adults. Treatment typically involves surgical repair of the hernia, which involves returning the herniated bowel portion to its normal position in the abdomen and closing the weakened inguinal canal. In some cases, a mesh may be used to reinforce the area and reduce the risk of recurrence. Prompt medical attention and intervention are crucial to prevent potential complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation, which can lead to more severe symptoms and require emergency surgery.
Hydrocele in which the sac contains also a loop of intestine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "enterohydrocele" has its etymology rooted in Greek and Latin.
The term can be broken down into three distinct parts: "entero-", "hydro-", and "-cele".
1. "Entero-" comes from the Greek word "enteron", meaning intestine or bowel.
2. "Hydro-" is derived from the Greek word "hudōr", meaning water or fluid.
3. "-Cele" comes from the Latin word "coele", which means cavity or sac.
Combining these components, "enterohydrocele" is a medical term used to describe a condition where there is a herniation of the intestine accompanied by the presence of serous fluid or liquid within the hernial sac or cavity.