Hydrocele of the canal of Nuck

Abstract

Hydrocele of canal of Nuck is a rare condition in adult women which can cause
inguinal-vulvar swelling. It occurs due to failure of obliteration of the vaginal process,
which is the extension of the parietal peritoneum accompanying the round ligament
of the uterus through the inguinal canal to the labia majora. Accumulation of serous
fluid in the sac causes its appearance. Nonspecific clinical findings such as painless,
fluctuating swelling extending from the superficial inguinal canal to the labia
majora do not allow a preoperative diagnosis of this condition. Ultrasonography
and magnetic resonance imaging can contribute to the diagnosis. The definitive
diagnosis can only be made during surgery and with anatomopathological findings.
Treatment consists of surgical resection of the lesion locally or laparoscopically. A
case of hydrocele of canal of Nuck is presented.