Hydrocele of the Canal of Nuck: A Forgotten Pathology Review Article

Abstract

A hydrocele of the canal of Nuck is an extremely rare anatomical abnormality observed in children. The disease results from the partial obliteration of the canal of Nuck, an anomalous peritoneal pouch that extends into the labia majora before the uterine round ligament. Inadequate obliteration of this canal, called patent processus vaginalis, can lead to a hydrocele or an inguinal hernia. This review summarizes the disease pathology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of hydrocele of the canal of Nuck.The diagnosis of this rare disorder is primarily imaging-based, with ultrasonography being the most convenient method. The treatment is based on clinical presentation. The rarity of this disorder and the overlapping groin disorders complicate the diagnosis of this anatomical disease of early life.