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Bartholin abscess masquerading as an unusual vaginal prolapse: a case report
Lilly Varghese1, Alice George, Marie Therese Manipadam
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India. lillyanil@cmcvellore.ac.in
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|December 23, 2008
Summary
Pelvic organ prolapse and vaginal cysts rarely coexist. A Bartholin gland abscess was misdiagnosed as an enterocele, highlighting the need for imaging in complex cases.
Area of Science:
- Urogynecology
- Pelvic reconstructive surgery
- Gynecologic pathology
Background:
- Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and vaginal wall cysts are common gynecologic conditions.
- Co-occurrence of POP and vaginal cysts is rare.
- Vaginal cysts can mimic or contribute to POP, complicating diagnosis.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old woman presented with a 6-year history of vaginal bulge.
- Initial diagnosis was enterocele with paravaginal defect.
- Imaging revealed a large cystic mass, later confirmed as a Bartholin gland abscess.
Findings:
- The vaginal bulge was caused by a 10 x 5 cm Bartholin gland abscess, not an enterocele.
- Misdiagnosis occurred due to the unusual presentation and size of the cyst.
- Histological confirmation was crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Implications:
- Unusual presentations of vaginal cysts can mimic pelvic organ prolapse.
- Advanced imaging is essential for accurate preoperative diagnosis in complex cases.
- Improved diagnostic accuracy leads to better surgical planning and patient outcomes.
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