Bartholin's abscess
Bartholin's Abscess
Bartholin's abscess (/bɑːrˈθoʊlɪnz ˈæbsɛs/) is a medical condition characterized by the formation of a pus-filled abscess in one of the Bartholin's glands, which are located on each side of the vaginal opening.
Etymology
The term "Bartholin's abscess" is named after the Danish anatomist Caspar Bartholin the Younger (1655–1738), who first described the Bartholin's glands. The term "abscess" comes from the Latin abscessus, meaning "a going away", referring to the "going away" or discharge of pus.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Bartholin's abscess may include pain and swelling in the vulva, discomfort while walking or sitting, and fever. In some cases, an abscess may cause no symptoms and is only discovered during a routine gynecological examination.
Causes
Bartholin's abscess is typically caused by a bacterial infection, often from bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) or sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia. The infection can cause a blockage in the duct of the Bartholin's gland, leading to the formation of an abscess.
Treatment
Treatment for Bartholin's abscess usually involves draining the abscess and treating the underlying infection with antibiotics. In some cases, a small surgical procedure may be necessary to create a new duct to drain the gland (a procedure known as marsupialization).
Related Terms
- Bartholin's cyst: A fluid-filled sac that can form in a Bartholin's gland.
- Bartholin's gland: A pair of glands located on each side of the vaginal opening.
- Abscess: A collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body.
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