Definition
Bartolini's cysts are roundish formations that develop in the vulvar region, inside the labia majora. They develop in about 2% of women, usually between 20 and 30 years.
Bartolini's glands are two small symmetrical glands, located in the posterior and lateral portion of the vaginal orifice. Their function is to secrete a viscous and colorless liquid used to lubricate the vaginal tissues during sexual intercourse. Sometimes, the excretory ducts from which this liquid comes out become blocked, causing the formation of a cyst.
Possible causes include infectious-inflammatory processes and traumatic injuries. Rarely, cysts result from a sexually transmitted disease (eg gonorrhea and chlamydia).
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Dysuria
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Temperature
- Pus formation
- Vaginal discharge
Further indications
Bartolini's cysts are often asymptomatic, but if they become very bulky they can cause discomfort, irritation or pain, especially during walking and sexual intercourse. Urination can also become difficult. Furthermore, inflamed cysts stretch the labia of the affected side and cause swelling, redness and vulvar asymmetry. Sometimes, they are associated with the production of vaginal secretions (usually yellowish).
The possible infection of the cyst can cause abscesses. In this case, fever and very intense pain may occur.
The diagnosis is made through the physical examination. In women over the age of 40, an excisional biopsy must be performed to rule out any vulvar cancer.
Generally, Bartolini's cysts do not need treatment. However, if they are the object of recurrent infections it is necessary to resort to surgical therapy. An abscess, on the other hand, requires adequate antibiotic therapy, followed by drainage, with or without resection of the affected gland.
