Objectives: Bartholin glands are mucus-secreting glands that lubricate the vagina. Bartholin Gland Cysts (BGCs) usually present unilaterally and self-resolving: however, they can recur and present with complex enlarged cysts bilaterally. The objectives of this presentation are to describe a case and the common causes of BGCs; to differentiate BGCs from Bartholin gland abscess; to understand the common management option; to describe how to surgically manage complex BGCs; and to review possible postoperative complications and management.
Methods: 18-year-old female presented to clinic with long-history of recurrent bilateral BGCs since the onset of her sexual activity. The right BGC was more than lemon size, disfiguring her vulva appearance. Vital signs were normal and there were no signs of abscess or local infection. Conservative management along with multiple Incision & Drainage with Word’s catheter procedures were performed before her visit to our clinic. Transvaginal/perineal ultrasound were suboptimal, MRI of pelvis was performed showing 6-7cm loculated BGC on the right and 3-4cm BGC on the left. MRI pelvis provided good information regarding the size, shape and extent of the cyst. She strongly desired surgical excision of her BGCs. Bilateral excision of BGCs with vulvoplasty were performed without complication. Patient recovered well postoperatively without any postoperative complications. The patient has given her verbal and written consent for her images and other clinical information to be reported.
Clinical Relevance: Small BGCs are usually benign and self-resolving with conservative management: However, surgical excision can be considered for those with multiple recurrences and enlarged sized symptomatic BGCs.
