What is a communicating hydrocele?

What is a communicating hydrocele?

A communicating hydrocele is a common condition that affects males. A hydrocele is a collection of fluid in the scrotum (sac located under the penis). More than one in 10 male infants has a hydrocele at birth.

A communicating hydrocele is a hydrocele that has an opening referred to as a “communication” into the abdominal cavity. The opening allows abdominal fluid to pass into the scrotum. A non-communicating hydrocele is less serious than a communicating hydrocele. A non-communicating hydrocele usually remains the same size or has a very slow growth.

If a communicating hydrocele does not go away on its own and is not treated, it can lead to an inguinal hernia. In this condition, part of the intestine or intestinal fat pushes through an opening (inguinal canal) in the groin area.