Recurrent periclitoral abscess treated by marsupialization

Clitoral Abscess: A Case Report Highlighting an Uncommon Source of Gynecological Emergency

Clitoral abscess is a rare gynecological condition with limited literature reports. This case report aimed to contribute to the understanding and management of clitoral abscesses, particularly in cases without identifiable causes. A 26-year-old sexually active woman with no significant medical history presented with severe perineal pain originating specifically in the clitoral region. The onset of symptoms, characterized by pulsatile perineal pain worsening over several days, was localized to the clitoris. Clinical examination indicated a clitoral abscess, confirmed through surgical incision and drainage. The medical treatment consisted of the administration of oral analgesics, flucloxacillin at a dose of 500 mg for seven days, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents. The procedure preserved the dorsal artery of the clitoris, with bacteriological analysis revealing polymicrobial organisms. Post surgery, the patient recovered fully with no complications. By sharing details about this unusual clinical case and its effective treatment, we contribute to advancing the collective knowledge in the field. This dissemination supports a deeper understanding and facilitates informed decision-making for healthcare professionals.

Periclitoral Abscess: A Recurrent Problem

BACKGROUND

Periclitoral abscesses are rare and lack a defined management strategy due to the limited number of cases available for review. Regardless of the initial management, recurrence remains common.

CASE

A 17-year-old presented with clitoral pain and swelling consistent with periclitoral abscess. Conservative treatment with antibiotics failed, and underwent 2 incision and drainage procedures prior to resolution of the abscess.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

Spontaneous periclitoral abscess is rare, and the optimal treatment strategy has not been defined, with a high rate of recurrence being noted regardless of either conservative management with antibiotics or incision and drainage as initial treatment. In many cases of recurrent periclitoral abscess, hair was removed from the abscess cavity, suggesting that retained foreign material in the abscess cavity could be the nidus for recurrence.

To Shave or Not to Shave? A Series of Periclitoral Masses Associated With Depilatory Techniques and a Review of the Literature

Periclitoral masses are uncommon disorders in gynecology often leading to pain and distress. With the popularity of female genital hair grooming and depilation, the vulva has been exposed to new insults including contact dermatitis and folliculitis. The unique anatomy of the protective covering of the clitoral hood may subject hair fragments to trapping, inflammation, irritation, and in some cases abscess formation.

Gynecologic rarities: a case of periclitoral abscess and review of the literature

Periclitoral abscess is a rare entity, with publications limited to case reports. We present here a case of periclitoral abscess in a 17 year old patient, which was treated with incision and drainage. We also review all the similar cases that have been reported in the English literature until now.