Unusual underlying cause of recurrent vulval abscess

An ex-intravenous drug user was admitted four times during a 2 year period from December 2006, with the same complaint of vulval abscess which required repeat incision and drainage procedures. In January 2009, a pelvic x-ray showed widening of the symphysis pubis, marginal irregularities, and severe erosive changes which were consistent with pubic osteomyelitis. She was treated with intravenous ciprofloxacin and clindamycin for 2 weeks and was discharged on oral antibiotics for 6 weeks. She recovered well and her condition has significantly improved with no recurrent infection so far. She is now being followed up every 4-6 weeks at the orthopaedics outpatient clinic.