Hydrocele in the canal of nuck in a young female: a rare case report

Abstract

Hydrocele of the canal of Nuck is a rare condition seen in younger females which is an extension of the peritoneum into the inguinal canal. Incomplete proximal obliteration and collection of serous fluid in the sac leads to the formation of a hydrocele of the canal of Nuck. A 28-year-old woman presented with swelling in her right groin for 5 months of 6cm × 5 cm. Ultrasound revealed a well-defined tubular cystic structure, measuring 5 cm × 3.5 cm × 5 cm with a volume of 50–60 ml. The cyst was dissected and the neck of the sac was extended up to the deep ring. Clear fluid was found on opening the sac. Clinically, it appears either as a painless or a moderately painful fluctuant inguinal mass. Clinical findings alone do not help in diagnosing the disease. Treatment includes surgical excision of the mass but without puncturing it as aspiration is inadequate and results in recurrence.