Bartholin Gland Abscess Diagnosis and Office Management

While Bartholin gland abscesses are less commonly seen outpatient pathology, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to preventing serious complications such as sepsis and rectovaginal fistula. Owing to an unacceptably high recurrence rate, simple incision and drainage is insufficient for primary treatment; preferably, placement of a Word catheter or Jacobi ring device to reepithelize the duct may be done under local anesthesia in an outpatient clinic. Destruction of the gland through silver nitrate application or alcohol sclerotherapy is an alternative. Marsupialization is often reserved for recurrent cases, although can be offered as primary management in some situations.