Dados do Trabalho

Título

Lost and Found: US Revelations in the Empty Scrotum and Groin Lumps

Descrição sucinta do(s) objetivo(s)

In this review, we will present the US findings of some of the most common disorders affecting the inguinal canal in neonates and children, with a focus on abnormalities of the vaginal process, such as congenital hydroceles, indirect inguinal hernias, and cryptorchidism.

Descrição da(s) doença(s), método(s) e/ou técnica(s)

Understand the anatomy of the inguinal canal and its embryology, particularly in relation to the process of testicular descent.
Recognize some of the most common pathologies that can occur in the inguinal canal in pediatrics.
Review practical aspects of performing ultrasound of the inguinal canal.
Summarize the different ultrasound patterns observed in testicles located within the inguinal canal and those that remain undescended.
Identify the different types of hydrocele in pediatrics.

Discussão

Cryptorchidism

Occurs when one or both testicles fail to complete their migration process towards the base of the scrotum. The testicles may be located at any point along their normal descent pathway or, conversely, outside of it.

Retractile testicles: mostly in scrotum, ascend via cremaster muscle contractions.
Sliding testicles: manual assistance needed to reach scrotum, often supra-scrotal.
Ascending testicles: initially in scrotum, later fix in extra scrotal position.
Ectopic testicles: fix in non-standard positions, e.g., suprapubic region, thigh root, perineum, etc.

Conclusões

Use color Doppler to assess blood flow in cases of suspected torsion to distinguish it from other conditions, such as epididymitis.
Carefully evaluate any testicular asymmetry or heterogeneous areas with Doppler, as these may indicate ischemia or infarction.
In cases of acute scrotal pain, prioritize ruling out torsion before considering other diagnoses.
Early detection and proper management of testicular pathologies in childhood contribute to reproductive health and long-term quality of life.

Palavras Chave

inguinal canal cryptorchidism hydrocele inguinal canal undescended testicles

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