Anterior vaginal cyst mimicking pelvic organ prolapse: Case report and literature review

Large Anterior vaginal cysts can manifest as symptomatic genital prolapse, posing a diagnostic challenge due to their uncommon clinical presentation. A 22-year-old primiparous woman with no previous medical history is admitted for delivery. Examination revealed a cystic mass on the anterior vaginal wall. Perineal ultrasound confirmed an independent cyst measuring 45x40x35 mm. The cyst was successfully aspirated, and the patient delivered without complications. At 12 months, the cyst reappeared, requiring vaginal surgical excision. Histological examination identified a Gartner cyst. During follow-up at 6 and 12 months, the patient remained asymptomatic. Vaginal cysts typically present as small, solitary, and symptomless. However, they can grow in size, mimicking other conditions and often being misdiagnosed as cystoceles. Consequently, surgical excision of the vaginal cysts is the preferred treatment option, yielding positive anatomical outcomes and high patient satisfaction levels. In this report, we describe a rare case of a Gartner cyst found on the anterior vaginal wall. The report also underscores the crucial role of imaging in accurately identifying the cyst's location, assessing its association with adjacent tissues, and guiding the surgeon in devising an effective operative plan. •Anterior vaginal cysts occur rarely.•It can cause a variety of symptoms and is often misdiagnosed as cystocele.•Clinical examination and ultrasound of the pelvic floor establish the diagnosis.•Surgical excision via a vaginal approach gives good results for patients.