Ask a doctor on the topic of Urology

Recurrent swelling on the scrotum of a 3-month-old baby

November 13, 2014 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Hello, I have twins. Unfortunately, this is about a person who lives in Nigeria (Lagos) and not here. She has twins who are only 2 1/2 months old, one of the twins has a swelling on the scrotum that is small. The swelling occurred at birth.

It is in the testicle and not on the skin. It feels soft when touched. It both disappears and reappears in a different location. It does not seem to be painful (as the child does not cry).

1. Question: We would like to know what this might be similar to? We assume that these diseases can be ruled out: hydrocele, testicular torsion, epididymitis, testicular tumor.

We have received antibiotics from a doctor there and are not sure if it is the best option.
2. Question: Is there an over-the-counter medication that could be recommended to us?

Thank you.

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good day,

The most likely cause is a hydrocele, because a testicular torsion would be incredibly painful, an epididymitis as well, and a tumor would be easily palpable.

However, a hydrocele cannot be ruled out, it is even probable. An infection that requires antibiotics would cause the testicle to become red and painful; if that is the case, the child should receive the medication.

If the testicle is painless and only swollen, a hydrocele is the most likely cause. Then we will see if the fluid slowly resorbs; if not, a small surgical procedure will be necessary. Unfortunately, medications, even over-the-counter ones, do not help in this case.

Best regards, Dr. Höllering