Hydrocele

A healthcare provider can diagnose a hydrocele in a child or adult. They’ll ask questions about your symptoms and perform a physical examination.

During the physical exam, the provider may apply pressure to the groin area or ask you to cough to see how the swelling changes. They may shine a light through your scrotum to highlight any abdominal fluid in the area. A provider can diagnose most hydroceles from a physical exam alone.

To confirm their diagnosis, the provider may order imaging tests, including:

• Pelvic ultrasound. A pelvic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the soft tissues in your pelvis, including your testicles. It’s the most common imaging test providers order for a hydrocele diagnosis.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan is a type of X-ray that takes cross-section pictures of your body — like slices — to create 3D images of your testicles. A CT scan is more precise than a standard X-ray.