title: Clinical Pathology of Bartholin's Glands: A Review of the Literature.
abstract: The Bartholin's glands are located symmetrically at the posterior region of the vaginal opening and play an important role in the female reproductive system. These two pea-sized glands are involved in mucus secretion and vaginal lubrication. Cyst formation in the glands is common and results from mucus build-up in gland ducts. It is important to monitor such cysts because they may occur in the form of carcinomas. Larger cysts and abscesses are found in the lower vestibular region and typically present with erythema and edema. Biopsy is an effective method for distinguishing between Bartholin's gland cysts and differential diagnosis. While smaller cysts may be asymptomatic and may be left untreated, larger cysts require medical attention. Several treatment options are available, including marsupialization and CO2 laser. Healing and recovery depend on the severity of infection and course of treatment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY., USA.
authors.forename: Min Y
authors.initials: MY
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.affiliation: Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY., USA.
authors.forename: Amanda
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Dalpiaz
authors.affiliation: Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY., USA.
authors.forename: Richard
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Schwamb
authors.affiliation: Department of Urology, SUNY School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY., USA.
authors.forename: Yimei
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Miao
authors.affiliation: Department of Urology, SUNY School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY., USA.
authors.forename: Wayne
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Waltzer
authors.affiliation: Department of Urology, SUNY School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY., USA.
authors.forename: Ali
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Khan
keywords: Abscesses; Bartholin's glands; Cysts; Female reproductive system; Vulval lubrication