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Patient case: Hydrocele

Discussion

A 5-year-old boy is brought to the clinic by his mother due to swelling in his scrotum that has been present for the past few months. The mother reports that the swelling is noticeable during the day, but it seems to reduce in size when the child is lying down. The boy has no pain or discomfort, and there is no history of trauma or redness in the area. He has been otherwise healthy and has no problems with urination.

On physical examination, the scrotum is noted to be swollen, translucent, and soft, with a smooth surface. There is no redness, tenderness, or abnormal masses palpated. The swelling transilluminates, suggesting the presence of fluid. The testicles are normal in size, and the spermatic cord feels normal. The clinical findings are consistent with a diagnosis of hydrocele.

An ultrasound of the scrotum is performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess for any associated conditions. The ultrasound shows a simple hydrocele with no other abnormalities. Given that the hydrocele is not causing any pain or complications, the decision is made to monitor the condition. The parents are educated about the condition, and follow-up is scheduled in six months to reassess.

Questions
1. What is the most likely diagnosis for this patient based on the clinical presentation?

A) Testicular torsion

B) Hydrocele

C) Epididymitis

D) Inguinal hernia

2. Which physical exam finding is consistent with hydrocele?

A) Redness and warmth of the scrotum

B) Tenderness to palpation

C) Transillumination of the scrotal swelling

D) Hard, firm mass in the scrotum

3. What is the most appropriate management for this child’s hydrocele, given the current findings?

A) Immediate surgery

B) Observation and follow-up

C) Antibiotic therapy

D) Scrotal support and rest

4. What imaging modality was used to confirm the diagnosis of hydrocele in this case?

A) X-ray

B) MRI

C) Ultrasound

D) CT scan

Reveal answers

Answers

1. B) Hydrocele

2. C) Transillumination of the scrotal swelling

3. B) Observation and follow-up

4. C) Ultrasound

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