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Nabothian cyst - Overview

Definition of Nabothian cyst:

A nabothian cyst is a mucus-filled lump on the surface of the cervix.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cervix is lined with cells that release mucus. These cells can become covered by a type of skin cells called squamous epithelium. When this happens, the secretions build up in the plugged cells. They form a smooth, rounded bump on the cervix. The bump is called a nabothian cyst.

Each nabothian cyst appears as a small, white pimple. There can be more than one.

  • Reviewed last on: 5/12/2008
  • Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Lentz GM. History, Physical Examination, and Preventive Health Care: General, Gynecologic, and Psychosocial History and Examination, Health Care Maintenance, Disease Prevention. In: Katz, VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2007: chap 7.