Bartholin's Cyst Flashcards
What is a Bartholin’s cyst?
A Bartholin’s cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that occurs when the duct of the Bartholin’s gland becomes blocked.
Where are the Bartholin’s glands located?
The Bartholin’s glands are located on either side of the vaginal opening.
What is the function of the Bartholin’s glands?
The Bartholin’s glands secrete mucus to lubricate the vagina.
What causes a Bartholin’s cyst?
It is caused by blockage of the Bartholin’s duct, often due to infection, trauma, or inflammation.
What is a Bartholin’s abscess?
A Bartholin’s abscess occurs when a Bartholin’s cyst becomes infected, leading to the accumulation of pus.
What are the symptoms of a Bartholin’s cyst?
Symptoms include a painless swelling near the vaginal opening, though larger cysts may cause discomfort or pain during sitting or intercourse.
What are the symptoms of a Bartholin’s abscess?
Symptoms include a painful, tender swelling, redness, warmth, and sometimes fever or difficulty walking.
What are the common causative organisms of a Bartholin’s abscess?
Organisms include Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species, and less commonly Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
How is a Bartholin’s cyst diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically clinical, based on the appearance and location of the swelling.
What investigations are performed for a Bartholin’s abscess?
Investigations may include swabs for culture and sensitivity, particularly if gonorrhoea or chlamydia is suspected.
What is the first-line treatment for an uncomplicated Bartholin’s cyst?
An uncomplicated cyst may not require treatment and can resolve spontaneously or with warm sitz baths.
What is the management of a Bartholin’s abscess?
Management involves incision and drainage, often combined with antibiotic therapy.
What is a Word catheter, and how is it used in Bartholin’s cysts?
A Word catheter is a small balloon catheter inserted into the cyst cavity after drainage to keep the duct open and prevent recurrence.
What is marsupialisation, and when is it indicated?
Marsupialisation is a surgical procedure to create a permanent opening in the cyst wall, used for recurrent or large Bartholin’s cysts.
What are the indications for antibiotic therapy in Bartholin’s abscess?
Antibiotics are indicated if there is cellulitis, systemic infection, or if high-risk organisms like gonorrhoea are suspected.
Which antibiotics are commonly used for Bartholin’s abscess?
Empirical therapy often includes broad-spectrum antibiotics like co-amoxiclav or metronidazole with flucloxacillin.
What are the complications of an untreated Bartholin’s abscess?
Complications include worsening infection, systemic sepsis, or the formation of a chronic fistula.
How can recurrence of Bartholin’s cysts be prevented?
Recurrence can be reduced with marsupialisation or long-term use of a Word catheter.
When should a biopsy of a Bartholin’s cyst be considered?
Biopsy should be considered in postmenopausal women to rule out malignancy, such as Bartholin’s gland carcinoma.
What lifestyle measures can help manage Bartholin’s cysts?
Warm sitz baths, good perineal hygiene, and avoiding trauma or irritation can help.
What is the prognosis for a Bartholin’s cyst or abscess?
Prognosis is excellent with appropriate treatment, but recurrence is possible.
What is the difference between a Bartholin’s cyst and a Bartholin’s abscess?
A cyst is a fluid-filled swelling, while an abscess involves infection and pus formation.
What is the role of imaging in Bartholin’s cysts or abscesses?
Imaging, such as ultrasound, may be used if malignancy is suspected or to confirm the diagnosis in atypical presentations.
What are the symptoms of Bartholin’s gland carcinoma?
Symptoms include a hard, painless mass, ulceration, or persistent swelling, especially in postmenopausal women.
How is a Bartholin’s abscess differentially diagnosed?
Differential diagnoses include vulvar abscess, infected sebaceous cyst, or Skene’s gland abscess.
