Bartholin's cyst

This is a common benign lesion of the vulva representing a dilatation of the duct of Bartholin's gland. It typically presents as a unilateral swelling on the posterolateral aspect of the introitus. Usually, the cyst is about 2 cm in diameter but may reach up to 8 cm. It contains sterile mucus and is asymptomatic.

Secondary infection of the cyst produces a Bartholin's abscess. The organisms usually cultured are staphylococci, streptococci, E. coli and on occasion, gonococci. The abscess is often tender. Treatment options include marsupialisation of the gland to create a fistulous tract between the wall of the duct and the skin.

Recurrent infection in the older woman should raise the rare possibility of carcinoma.

Reference

1. Omole F, Kelsey RC, Phillips K, et al. Bartholin duct cyst and gland abscess: office management. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Jun 15;99(12):760-6.