Gartner Duct Cyst Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Gartner Duct cyst are one type of vaginal cyst that can occur. This type of cyst is generally located on the side wall of the vagina. Gartner cysts are also known as Garter duct cysts.
Gartner’s duct is one of the organs formed during the development of the female fetus, which then undergoes degradation after birth. If part of the duct persists, sometimes fluid can accumulate which then forms cysts on the vaginal wall.
Symptoms
In some cases, one of the signs of a Gartner cyst is a soft lump that can be felt on the vaginal wall or protrudes outside the vagina. The size of the cyst can vary, from small to quite large.
Reason
During the growth and development of the reproductive system of the female fetus, one of the organs formed is the Gartner duct or mesonephric duct in the vaginal wall, which should experience degradation at birth.
The occurrence of Gartner cysts is generally caused by the persistence of the Gartner ducts, an organ of the female reproductive system which is generally found during the development of a female fetus in the uterus. If the Gartner duct persists after birth, fluid can collect in certain parts of the duct which then forms cysts on the vaginal wall.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a Gartner cyst can be determined based on medical interviews, direct physical examination, and certain supporting examinations if deemed necessary.
During a medical interview, the doctor may ask about your previous medical history and any current complaints. During a routine vaginal examination, the doctor may feel for a mass on the vaginal wall. In addition, the doctor may also recommend carrying out several supporting examinations to rule out other conditions.
Some of the supporting examinations that can be carried out are:
- Biopsy, or taking a tissue sample from the cyst, to rule out malignancy
- Examination of vaginal or cervical fluid to determine the presence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasonography if deemed necessary, to see imaging results of the cyst
Treatment
Generally, the treatment of Gartner cysts is carried out on an observational basis by monitoring any growths or changes in appearance during routine checks.
If the cyst gets bigger or causes severe signs and symptoms, the doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cyst. If an infection or abscess occurs in the cyst, the doctor may recommend taking certain medications.
Prevention
There is no proven method of prevention that is completely effective in preventing Gartner’s cysts