Bartholin’s Gland: Abscess/Infection

Published on 31/05/2015 by admin

Filed under Obstetrics & Gynecology

Last modified 31/05/2015

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Chapter 67 Bartholin’s Gland: Abscess/Infection

INTRODUCTION

Description: An infection may occur in one or both Bartholin’s glands, resulting in swelling and/or abscess formation. Usually the process is unilateral and marked by pain and swelling. Systemic symptoms are minimal except in advanced cases.
Prevalence: Two percent of adult women develop infection or enlargement of one or both Bartholin’s glands.
Predominant Age: Of Bartholin’s gland infections, 85% occur during the reproductive years (peak: 20 to 29 years).
Genetics: No genetic pattern.

ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

Causes: Infection by Neisseria gonorrhoeae (80%), secondary infection by other organisms (e.g., Escherichia coli).
Risk Factors: Exposure to sexually transmitted disease, trauma.

CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Signs and Symptoms

• Cystic, painful swelling of the labia in the area of the Bartholin’s gland (at 5 and 7 o’clock positions on the vulva) developing rapidly over 2 to 4 days; cysts can range in size to 8 cm or greater
• Fever and malaise (uncommon)

DIAGNOSTIC APPROACH

Differential Diagnosis

• Cellulitis
• Necrotizing fasciitis
• Mesonephric cysts of the vagina
• Lipomas
• Fibromas
• Hernias
• Hydrocele
• Epidermal inclusion or sebaceous cyst
• Bartholin’s gland malignancy (rare)
• Neurofibroma
• Kaposi sarcoma (generally associated with immunocompromise)

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