Increased plasminogen activator enzymes of the tunica vaginalis in long-standing idiopathic hydrocele.

Previous research has shown increased fibrinolytic activity of the serous membranes as a reaction to stimuli that did not destroy their mesothelium. Large amounts of fluid remarkably stretch and chronically stimulate the tunica vaginalis in long-standing idiopathic hydrocele. For these reasons, a prospective controlled study was carried out in 30 male patients in order to investigate the possible alterations of the fibrinolytic capacity of this serosa by a method suitable for measuring plasminogen activator content of a single layer of cells. A possible role of plasminogen activator enzymes as a protective barrier against incidental absorption of fibrin/fibrinogen from the hydrocele fluid into vaginal tissues is considered.