Hematocele

A hematocele is the accumulation of blood within a body cavity, most often in the scrotum, around the testicle, although the term is also applied to other locations. It usually appears as a result of a blow, an injury, or a surgical complication.

How it presents: It may be noticed as an increase in volume, a feeling of heaviness, pain, or discoloration in the affected area.

Common causes: Direct trauma, previous procedures, or conditions that favor bleeding in the tissues.

Whom to see? Depending on the area involved, its study falls to the urologist, the general surgeon, or the gynecologist; the general practitioner can guide the first evaluation. In the face of a recent increase in volume or pain, the most prudent thing is for a professional to examine the case and define how to proceed.