Spontaneous peri-clitoral abscess in two nulliparous women: a case report

Abstract

Peri-clitoral abscess in an uncommon vulvar infection with limited data available in the literature. Most published information consists of isolated case reports, and standardized management guidelines have not been established. We report two cases of peri-clitoral abscess in previously healthy women aged 22 and 33 years who presented with acute pain localized to the peri-clitoral region and swelling of the clitoral hood. Neither patient had identifiable risk factors such as trauma, prior vulvar surgery or hidradenitis suppurativa. Physical examination demonstrated localized erythema, edema, and a fluctuation consistent with abscess formation. Both patients underwent incision and drainage under anesthesia with careful preservation of the clitoral neurovascular bundle. Culture-directed antibiotic therapy was administered. Both patients experienced rapid postoperative improvement with complete resolution and no recurrence or functional complications at follow-up. These cases highlight that peri-clitoral abscess can occur in otherwise healthy women without identifiable risk factors. Early recognition, careful surgical drainage, and culture-guided antimicrobial therapy are essential for successful management while preserving clitoral neurovascular integrity.