Differential Diagnosis for a Movable Cyst on the External Vaginal Labia
The patient presents with a movable cyst that has grown to the size of a dime on the external vaginal labia, described as red, sore to the touch, but not painful and less palpable. Based on these symptoms, the following differential diagnoses are considered:
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Bartholin's cyst: This is the most likely diagnosis given the location and description of the cyst. Bartholin's cysts are common, benign cysts that form on the labia, resulting from the blockage of the Bartholin's glands. They can become inflamed, leading to symptoms like redness and soreness.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Epidermal inclusion cyst: These are benign cysts that can form on the skin, including the labia, and can become inflamed, causing redness and soreness.
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, which can present as a red, sore lump on the labia.
- Sebaceous cyst: A benign cyst that forms from the oil glands in the skin, which can become inflamed and cause similar symptoms.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignant tumor: Although rare, it is crucial not to miss a potential malignant tumor, such as squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma, which can present as a lump on the labia.
- Infected cyst or abscess: An infected Bartholin's cyst or other type of cyst can lead to serious complications, such as abscess formation, if not properly treated.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection: HSV can cause painful lesions on the labia, which may be mistaken for a cyst.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Dermoid cyst: A rare type of cyst that can form on the labia, containing skin and sometimes other tissue.
- Vulvar hidradenoma: A rare, benign tumor of the sweat glands that can present as a lump on the labia.
- Vulvar syringoma: A rare, benign tumor of the sweat glands that can cause small, firm bumps on the labia.