Abdominoscrotal hydrocele in childhood - Report of four cases and review of the literature

Abdominoscrotal hydrocele is rare in adults and almost exceptional in children. The abdominal extension of the fluid collection may be properitoneal or retroperitoneal, and the processus vaginalis may be patent or obliterated. The pathogenesis is unclear. Pressure alone cannot explain this phenomenon, but may coexist with a preformed abnormality of the tunica vaginalis. The diagnosis should be suspected in the presence of a large hydrocele associated with an ipsilateral abdominal mass. Ultrasonography confirms the diagnosis with no need of other investigations. Complete surgical excision is preferable.