Article Sections

Introduction

Bartholin gland cysts and abscess are a common gynecologic condition characterized by the formation of a painful, localized mass in one of the Bartholin glands, which are located on either side of the vaginal opening.

Pathophysiology

The Bartholin glands ( Figure 1) (ie, greater vestibular glands) are located at the 4 and 8 o'clock positions at the posterior vaginal introitus and have ducts that drain into the vulvar vestibule for vulvovaginal lubrication.

When the ducts of these glands become obstructed, fluid accumulates within the gland, leading to the development of a Bartholin gland cyst.  When the obstructed cyst becomes infected, an abscess forms.  The most common causative organisms in a Bartholin gland abscess are Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, but polymicrobial infection may occur.

Continue Learning with UWorld

Get the full Bartholin Gland Cyst And Abscess article plus rich visuals, real-world cases, and in-depth insights from medical experts, all available through the UWorld Medical Library.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 3