What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Bartholin’s Gland Bilateral Nodular Hyperplasia
• Nodular Bartholin Gland Hyperplasia
• Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin's Gland

What is Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland? (Definition/Background Information)

• Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland is a very uncommon nodular lesion that is caused by a benign growth of the Bartholin gland. The condition may be seen in a wide age range of adult women
• Bartholin glands are fluid-secreting glands that are present on either side of the vagina. And, the term ‘nodular hyperplasia’ denotes an increased number of glands forming a nodule
• No invasion into the surrounding structure is noted, since Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland is a harmless and benign process
• When the lesion/tumor is examined under the microscope by a pathologist, an increased number of Bartholin glands that may show squamous metaplasia are noted
• The condition can cause signs and symptoms that includes the presence of a lump in the vaginal area, pain during sex, and difficulties while walking/sitting
• Only symptomatic tumors need treatment, and this usually involves a surgical excision and removal of the tumor mass. The prognosis of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin's Gland is excellent with appropriate treatment

Who gets Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland affects women in the 20-55 year age group; the average age of presentation is 36 years
• The condition is observed worldwide; all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland? (Predisposing Factors)

No definitive risk factors for Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland have been established. However, in some cases, the risk factors may include:

• Hormonal replacement therapy (use of estrogen or progesterone supplements)
• Use of oral contraceptive pills

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland? (Etiology)

Currently, the exact cause of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland formation is unknown.

• Whether the condition occurs as a neoplastic process or as a reactive process is still being currently debated
• Some studies indicate that the process may be caused by hormonal influence

However, the condition is non-infectious; it does not spread through sexual transmission (or by direct physical contact) from one individual to another.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland?

The common signs and symptoms of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland may include:

• The presence of a slow-growing solid mass, near the vaginal opening, which may be tender and painless
• The tumor borders are irregularly-defined
• The tumor size may range from 1.2 cm to 4.5 cm; mean size being 2.3 cm
• The tumor is mostly unilateral (occurring on one side of the vulva); but in some cases may be bilateral (involving both the sides), when it is termed Bartholin’s Gland Bilateral Nodular Hyperplasia
• Large tumors may be painful
• Pelvic pain
• Discomfort while walking or sitting

Note: If the borders of the tumor are well-defined, then it is termed as an adenoma.

How is Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland may involve:

• Thorough examination of the genital area and complete evaluation of medical history
• Ultrasound scan of the pelvis: It is a non-invasive procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to produce real-time images
• Radiological studies through CT and MRI scans, if necessary
• Colposcopy: The cervix (including the vagina and vulva) is examined with an instrument, called a colposcope. This helps the physician get a magnified view of the cervix
• Hysteroscopy: This procedure involves placing a probe through the cervix to examine the cavity of the uterus
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy of the tumor is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Note: Sometimes, Nodular Bartholin Gland Hyperplasia is diagnosed incidentally during a colposcopic examination.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland?

Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland may lead to the following complications:

• Severe pain and discomfort during sex
• Superimposed bacterial or fungal infections that occurs due to ulceration and bleeding of the tumor
• Individuals may be under emotional and psychological stress due to the tumor presence

How is Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland Treated?

The treatment of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland may involve the following:

• In a majority of cases, removal of the tumor is not necessary, unless it causes bothersome signs and symptoms
• The treatment is a complete surgical excision, which can result in a cure
• Reassurance and support in case of stress and anxiety may be provided

How can Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods to prevent the occurrence of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland.

What is the Prognosis of Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Nodular Hyperplasia of Bartholin Gland:

• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse