Fetal hydrocele

Last revised by Mostafa Elfeky on 8 Nov 2021

A fetal hydrocele refers to a hydrocele present in utero.

Epidemiology

They may be sonographically identified in ~15% of male fetuses in the third trimester 6.

Pathology

Often result from a patent processus vaginalis. They are more frequently unilateral. 

Associations

Radiographic features

Antenatal ultrasound

May be seen as an anechoic crescentic anechoic region around the fetal testis.

Fetal MRI

May be seen as a T2 hyperintense fluid layer around the fetal scrotum 6.

Treatment and prognosis

Most cases are transient and resolve at birth.

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