E-Posters-Epidermal Inclusion Cysts of the Clitoris: Clinical Presentation, Impact on Sexual Function and Treatment Recommendations

Epidermal Inclusion Cysts of the Clitoris: Clinical Presentation, Impact on Sexual Function and Treatment Recommendations - Angela DiCarlo-Meacham, MD

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This study focuses on the clinical presentation, impact on sexual function, and treatment recommendations for clitoral epidermal inclusion cysts. These cysts are rare and are usually caused by trauma. The researchers reviewed published cases of these cysts and presented an additional case involving a large cyst causing sexual dysfunction. They conducted a PubMed search using specific terms and excluded articles that were not in English or involved cysts following trauma or other types of clitoral cysts. They found that most cysts presented or became symptomatic during puberty, suggesting a hormonal component to their development. Psychological distress and sexual dysfunction often occur with these cysts. Surgical removal is the preferred treatment and preserves clitoral function. The study examined a total of fifteen cases, with most being diagnosed either in early childhood or near puberty. In patients who were aware of the cyst, over 60% experienced psychological distress and half experienced pain. However, surgical removal with reconstruction resulted in maintained or improved sexual function for all sexually active patients. The study presented a case of a 22-year-old patient who had a vulvar mass since age 15 and experienced new onset anorgasmia. After surgical removal with reconstruction, the patient experienced a return of sexual function. Overall, the study concludes that surgical removal is the recommended treatment for clitoral epidermal inclusion cysts and can help alleviate associated psychological distress and sexual dysfunction.

Keywords

clinical presentation

sexual function

treatment recommendations

clitoral epidermal inclusion cysts

rare cysts

trauma-induced cysts

hormonal component

psychological distress

surgical removal

clitoral function