FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

Which condition is characterized by a painless buildup of fluid around the testicles?

1. Hydrocele

2. Orchitis

3. Prostatitis

4. Testicular torsion

The correct answer is: Hydrocele

Hydrocele is characterized by a painless buildup of fluid around the testicles, typically occurring in the scrotal area. This condition manifests due to an imbalance in the production and absorption of serous fluid within the tunica vaginalis, the pouch of tissue that surrounds the testis. It is commonly seen in newborns but can also occur in older males due to various reasons, including trauma or infection. In contrast, orchitis involves inflammation of the testicles, often resulting in pain and swelling, and is typically associated with infections like mumps or sexually transmitted infections. Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate gland, which may lead to pain in the pelvic region or urinary issues, but does not involve fluid buildup around the testicles. Testicular torsion is a surgical emergency involving the twisting of the spermatic cord, cutting off blood supply to the testicle, and is characterized by sudden and severe pain, not a painless fluid accumulation. These differences highlight why hydrocele is the only condition among the options that fits the description of a painless fluid buildup around the testicles.