Cowper's syringocele: a classification of dilatations of Cowper's gland duct based upon clinical characteristics of 8 boys.

Lesions of Cowper's gland duct assume various appearances. A system to classify each of these appearances is offered to diagnose these lesions more precisely. The urethrographic and endoscopic characteristics of dilated Cowper's gland ducts noted in 8 boys are grouped as a simple classification. The dilated Cowper's duct is referred to as a syringocele (Greek syringo--tube plus cele--swelling). There are 4 groups of Cowper's syringoceles: 1) simple syringocele--a minimally dilated duct, 2) perforate syringocele--a bulbous duct that drains into the urethra via a patulous ostium and appears as a diverticulum, 3) imperforate syringocele--a bulbous duct that resembles a submucosal cyst and appears as a radiolucent mass, and 4) ruptured syringocele--the fragile membrane that remains in the urethra after a dilated duct ruptures. Marsupialization of the syringoceles cured urine infection and hematuria but voiding symptoms may persist.