On the proteins of hydrocele fluid

In 26 patients with "uncomplicated" scrotal hydroceles, the electrolyte and protein composition of hydrocele fluid was determined and compared with that of blood sera. The findings suggest that hydrocele fluid derives from plasma by capillary filtration rather than by secretion from the tunica vaginalis. When hydrocele fluid contains less than 25 mg. per milliliter of protein, it probably develops secondary to impaired lymphatic drainage, whereas when this fluid contains more than 10 mg. per milliliter of protein, it may develop from heightened capillary filtration secondary to venous congestion in the cord.