Epidemiology
While Bartholin's duct cysts are identified in about 2% of women presenting for gynaecological care in the US, the exact incidence and prevalence remains largely unknown.[6] Approximately 3% of women who underwent pelvic MRI (serving as controls as part of research studies) were noted to have Bartholin's gland cysts identified, suggesting that they are relatively common.[7] One study in South Korean women estimated the incidence of Bartholin's duct cysts to be 0.55 per 1000 person-years, and 0.95 per 1000 person-years for Bartholin's abscesses.[8] An observational study in French university hospitals found physicians typically treated 2 to 6 abscesses, and fewer than 2 cysts, per month.[9]
Bartholin's abscess is diagnosed about 3 times more often than a Bartholin's cyst, but the authors believe that this statistic is a reflection of care-seeking behaviour (e.g., women seeking care for the increased pain from an abscess).
The size of the cyst depends on accumulation of Bartholin's gland secretions, and is exemplified by rapid enlargement during sexual activity and shrinkage/stability of cyst size in women with diminished sexual activity.
Bartholin's cysts typically occur in women of reproductive age. Most cases occur between ages 20 and 50 years, with 72% occurring before age 30 years and only 10% occurring in women >40 years of age.[8][10] While post-menopausal women may experience benign Bartholin's cysts, suspicion for malignancy is warranted given the decreased secretory response among this age group, together with increased risk for neoplastic growth.
Bartholin's cysts and abscesses are exceedingly rare before puberty, and only 2 cases involving a neonate have been reported.[11]
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