CYSTS OF THE VULVA
Categories:
Diseases of Women
A cyst is a cavity containing fluid and surrounded by
a covering (capsule). The duct (canal) of the gland of Bartholin, situated
in the labia majora, sometimes closes and the secretions of the gland are
not cast out, thus forming the cyst.
Cause. The closing is nearly always the result of gonorrhea.
Condition. The cyst is formed in the duct, the gland itself being
affected rarely. It contains a thi
sticky mucus. If the cyst arises in
the gland, the swelling is more deeply situated. These cysts may be
attacked with an acute inflammation and finally pus is formed in them, and
a very painful abscess is the result,
Symptoms. There are no symptoms except from the size of the swelling
unless an abscess occurs. Then there is an acute local pain, quite tender
on pressure, and often high fever.
Treatment. If the cyst is large it should be removed, especially if it
causes annoyance. If it becomes inflamed, rest in bed and cold
applications are indicated. If it goes on to an abscess, a free cut should
be made, the abscess scraped and good drainage given. Sometimes it is best
to use pure carbolic acid in the walls of the cyst.