Bartholins Cyst

Question 1

What is Bartholin’s gland?

Answer 1

Situated within the vestibule, just lateral to the introits, with the primary function of secreting lubricating fluid.

Question 2

What is a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 2

Occurs when the duct from the gland becomes blocked, resulting in palpable swelling and pain at the site of the gland.

Question 3

What is a Bartholin’s gland abscess?

Answer 3

Occurs when a cyst becomes infected, resulting in extreme pain, lymphadenopathy, erythema, and in rare cases systemic upset.

Question 4

What are the symptoms of a Bartholin’s gland cyst?

Answer 4

Palpable swelling
Pain at the site

Question 5

What are the symptoms of a Bartholin’s gland abscess?

Answer 5

Extreme pain
Lymphadenopathy
Systemic upset

Question 6

How do you diagnose a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 6

Transvaginal ultrasound

Question 7

What investigations would be done if a Bartholin’s cyst is suspected?

Answer 7

Physical examination
Blood cultures- if infection
Biopsy- if postmenopausal and malignancy is suspected

Question 8

What is the conservative management of Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 8

Warm salt water baths

Question 9

What is the medical management of Bartholin’s cysts?

Answer 9

Antibiotics

Question 10

What is the surgical management of a Bartholin’s cyst?

Answer 10

Incision and drainage