Hydrosarcocele is a medical term used to describe the rare condition of fluid accumulation in the scrotum. The word is made up of three parts: hydro, sarco, and cele. Hydro is derived from Greek "hudōr" meaning water, sarco is derived from Greek "sarkos" meaning flesh, and cele is derived from Greek "kēlē" meaning tumor. The correct pronunciation of hydrosarcocele is [hahy-droh-sahr-koh-seel]. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to explain the pronunciation and spelling of complex medical terms which can be challenging for non-specialists.
Hydrosarcocele is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid within the connective tissue sac that surrounds the testicle, known as the tunica vaginalis. This condition is primarily observed in males and can lead to swelling and discomfort in the scrotum.
The term "sarcocele" refers to the ballooning of the tunica vaginalis due to fluid buildup. The addition of "hydro-" indicates that the accumulated fluid in the sac is primarily composed of water. The condition typically arises as a result of an imbalance between fluid production and reabsorption within the testes.
Hydrosarcocele may occur due to a variety of reasons including injury, infection, or underlying medical conditions like testicular torsion or hydrocele. It may also develop as a post-surgical complication, especially after procedures such as vasectomy or hernia repair.
Common symptoms of hydrosarcocele include noticeable swelling or enlargement of one or both testicles, a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum, and possible pain or tenderness. If left untreated, hydrosarcocele may lead to complications such as infection, testicular atrophy, or impaired fertility.
Treatment options for hydrosarcocele mainly depend on the severity of the condition and the impact on the patient's quality of life. Non-invasive approaches like rest, over-the-counter pain medications, and scrotal support may be recommended in mild cases. However, surgical interventions, such as needle aspiration or hydrocelectomy (drainage and removal of the fluid sac), are often necessary for more severe or persistent cases.
A chronic swelling of the testis complicated with hydrocele.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word hydrosarcocele is derived from the Greek roots hydor meaning water, sarko meaning flesh, and kele meaning tumor or hernia.