M01.10.08 Bartholin’s gland

The Bartholin’s glands, also known as the greater vestibular glands, are small, paired, pea-sized glands located in the female genital area, specifically at the posterolateral portion of the vaginal opening. These glands are responsible for secreting mucus to lubricate the vulva, particularly during sexual arousal. Here is an overview of their histological structure:

1. Location and Anatomy

• Found at the base of the labia majora in the vulva.
• Each gland is about 1 cm in diameter, connected to the vaginal opening by a short duct.
• These glands open into the vestibule near the lower margin of the vagina.

2. Histological Structure

• Glandular Tissue: Bartholin’s glands are classified as tubuloalveolar exocrine glands, meaning they have a compound structure with secretory tubules and alveoli.
• Secretory Epithelium:
  • The secretory units (acini) of the gland are lined by simple cuboidal to columnar epithelium.
  • Secretory cells within the acini produce mucus, which serves as a lubricant.
• Ductal Epithelium:
  • The ducts that drain the glands are lined by transitional epithelium, which gradually transitions to stratified squamous epithelium closer to the duct opening.
  • The ducts are surrounded by connective tissue and smooth muscle, which aids in secretion.

Normal Bartholin’s gland in the wall of the vagina,

Low and medium-power microscopic

3. Associated Cells and Components

• Myoepithelial Cells: Located around the secretory units, these contractile cells help expel mucus from the acini into the ducts.
• Connective Tissue Stroma: Surrounding the glandular tissue is a supportive stroma consisting of collagen fibers, fibroblasts, and blood vessels, which provide structural integrity and nutrients.

4. Function

• The mucus secretion from Bartholin’s glands provides essential lubrication for the vaginal and vulvar area, reducing friction during sexual activity.
• The glands are hormonally responsive, becoming more active during sexual arousal.

Normal Bartholin’s gland in the wall of the vagina,

medium-power microscopic

5. Clinical Relevance

• Bartholin’s Cyst: Blockage of the duct can lead to a buildup of mucus and result in cyst formation.
• Bartholin’s Abscess: If the cyst becomes infected, it may develop into a painful abscess, often requiring drainage.

Points to Remember

• Bartholin’s glands are tubuloalveolar exocrine glands lined with cuboidal to columnar epithelium.
• Their ducts transition from transitional to stratified squamous epithelium as they approach the vaginal opening.
• Myoepithelial cells and connective tissue aid in secretion and structural support.
• Pathologies like cysts and abscesses are associated with ductal obstruction or infection.

References for Further Reading

• Histology textbooks for detailed slides and microscopic views of Bartholin’s glands.
• Anatomy and clinical pathology resources to explore implications in gynecology.