Differential Diagnosis for Left Vulva Cyst
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Bartholin's cyst or abscess: The presence of a pea-sized firm cyst with mild erythema and tenderness to touch on the vulva is highly suggestive of a Bartholin's cyst or abscess, especially given the location and symptoms.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Sebaceous cyst: A sebaceous cyst could present as a firm, tender nodule on the vulva, although it might not typically have the same level of erythema as a Bartholin's cyst.
- Epidermal inclusion cyst: Similar to a sebaceous cyst, an epidermal inclusion cyst could appear as a firm, possibly tender cyst on the vulva.
- Folliculitis or furuncle: An infected hair follicle (folliculitis) or a more severe infection forming a boil (furuncle) could present with similar symptoms, including tenderness and erythema.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)
- Necrotizing fasciitis: Although rare, necrotizing fasciitis is a life-threatening condition that could initially present with similar symptoms of erythema, tenderness, and swelling. Early recognition is crucial.
- Malignancy (e.g., vulvar cancer): While less common, any new or persistent vulvar lesion should be evaluated for the possibility of malignancy, especially in older adults or those with risk factors.
- Rare diagnoses
- Hydrocele of the vulva: A condition where a fluid-filled cyst forms in the vulva, which could potentially present similarly but is less common.
- Mesonephric cyst: A rare congenital anomaly that could present as a cystic structure on the vulva.
- Adnexal tumor: Tumors of the adnexal structures (sweat glands, sebaceous glands) of the vulva could present as firm, possibly tender masses, but are less common.