Nabothian Cyst

Nabothian cyst (an eponym in honor of German anatomist Martin Naboth) is a benign retention (accumulative) cystic formation of the cervix. It arises due to mechanical obstruction of the duct of mucinous glands of the endocervix.

Etiology and pathophysiology

The formation of cysts is closely related to processes in the “transformation zone” of the cervix. In the process of physiological (metaplasia) or posttraumatic (healing of erosion) epidermization, proliferating stratified squamous epithelium overgrows the cylindrical epithelium and covers the orifices of functioning glands (crypts). Secretion continues to be produced in a closed cavity, without an external outlet. This leads to the distension of the gland and formation of a cyst ranging from 2–3 mm to 1–2 cm, filled with thick yellowish or clear mucus.

Clinical significance

Nabothian cysts are a common finding during colposcopy (in 10–20% of women of reproductive age) and are considered normal. Multiple cysts indicate a history of cervicitis or an active healing process of ectopia. Large or multiple cysts may cause hypertrophy and deformation of the cervix, obstruct the visualization of the cervical canal, or serve as a reservoir for chronic infection, indicating the need for incision (puncture) and drainage.