Giant Bartholin ́s Gland Cyst: A Case Report of An Uncommon Clinical Presentation

Abstract

Bartholin gland cysts are a common vulvar condition in women of reproductive age, usually presenting as small, asymptomatic lesions. Giant cysts are uncommon and may cause significant anatomical distortion, discomfort, functional impairment, and diagnostic challenges. Treatment should be individualized according to lesion size, recurrence, symptoms, age, and suspicion of malignancy.

A 35-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 0, with a history of recurrent left-sided bartholinitis since the age of 18, previously managed with drainage, presented with a one-year history of progressive enlargement of a vulvar mass. On examination, a violaceous, painless lesion measuring approximately 12 × 8 cm was identified, associated with difficulty walking and performing daily activities. Ultrasonography revealed a large Bartholin gland cyst measuring 10 × 6 cm, while abdominal and pelvic computed tomography showed no other abnormalities. The patient underwent left Bartholin gland excision with left labial plasty. A 9 × 5 cm cystic lesion with an intact capsule was removed. Histopathological examination reported acute abscessed and chronic nonspecific fibrous bartholinitis, with negative surgical margins. The postoperative course was favorable, without complications or recurrence during follow-up.

Giant and recurrent Bartholin gland cysts are uncommon and may significantly affect patients' quality of life. In cases of large, recurrent lesions or when malignancy cannot be excluded, complete surgical excision allows definitive treatment and histopathological evaluation. This case highlights the importance of individualized management based on lesion characteristics and clinical history.