From the Guidelines
The Skene's (paraurethral) gland functions to produce a small amount of fluid that contributes to lubrication during sexual arousal and may play a role in female ejaculation. The Skene's glands are located on each side of the urethra, and infection can present as erythematous areas lateral to the urethra 1. Some key points about the Skene's glands include:
- They are homologous to the prostate gland in men, meaning they develop from the same embryonic tissue
- They contain prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and prostatic acid phosphatase, similar to the male prostate
- They can occasionally become infected, resulting in a condition called skenitis, which may cause pain, discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse, and discharge
- Treatment for skenitis typically involves antibiotics if bacterial infection is present
- In rare cases, Skene's glands can develop cysts or abscesses that may require drainage or surgical intervention Understanding these glands is important for diagnosing and treating certain urogenital conditions in women, such as skenitis, which can be identified by inserting a finger into the vagina and applying anterior pressure to produce discharge from the ducts 1.
From the Research
Function of the Skene's (Paraurethral) Gland
The function of the Skene's gland is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the studies suggest that the Skene's gland is a paraurethral gland localized on the upper wall of the vagina, and is believed to be homologues of the prostate gland derived from the urogenital sinus 2.
Skene's Gland Abnormalities
Skene's gland abnormalities include Skene's gland cysts and abscesses, which can be differentiated from urethral diverticulum based on clinical findings 3. These abnormalities can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Chronic urethral pain
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Unexplained dyspareunia
- Dysuria 4
Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnosis of Skene's gland abscess or infection is usually made based on history and physical examination, but may require further evaluation with imaging in some cases 4. Treatment options include incision and drainage for abscesses, and surgical excision for cysts or abscesses that do not respond to conservative measures 2, 3, 5.
Key Points
- Skene's glands are paraurethral glands localized on the upper wall of the vagina
- Skene's gland abnormalities can cause a range of symptoms, including chronic urethral pain and recurrent urinary tract infections
- Diagnosis is usually made based on history and physical examination, but may require further evaluation with imaging
- Treatment options include incision and drainage, and surgical excision 2, 3, 4, 6, 5