2.27 Nabothian Cysts

Question 1

Where are nabothian cysts seen?

Answer 1

often on the surface of the cervix

Question 2

What are two other names for nabothian cysts?

Answer 2

nabothian follicles or

mucinous retention cysts

Question 3

How do nabothian cysts form?

Answer 3

columnar epithelium of endocervix produces mucous,
if this epithelium gets covered by squamous epithelium of ectocervix,
then the mucous is trapped and forms cysts.

often after childbirth, trauma or cervicitis.

Question 4

How do nabothian cysts present?

Answer 4

often incidental on speculum exam. typically no symptoms (if very large may cause feelings fullness in pelvis)

• smooth rounded bumps near os
• whitish / yellowish
• 2mm to 30mm

Question 5

Management of nabothian cysts?

Answer 5

when clear Dx then no treatment, will resolve spontaneously

Dx doubt then colposcopy ≠ excision and biopsy to exclude pathology