Other Causes Acute idiopathic scrotal edema is another possible cause of an acute scrotum. This condition is characterized by the rapid onset of significant edema without tenderness. Erythema may be present. The patient is usually afebrile, and all diagnostic tests are negative. The hydrocele can seal off, trapping peritoneal fluid around the testis, or it can persist and dilate, possibly causing bowel herniation.
Most hydroceles resolve spontaneously.