Delayed presentation of a giant clitoridal cyst following female genital mutilation: A case report

Abstract

Background: Clitoridal cyst is an epidermal inclusion cyst occurring in the region of the clitoris. It is a complication of female genital mutilation. It is usually underreported and thus a rare clinical diagnosis. This may be because the cyst is usually asymptomatic and in a concealed location, as well as the proscribed status of female genital mutilation (FGM) in society. This is a case of a 36-year-old multipara with a giant clitoridal cyst following FGM in childhood. Case report: Mrs B.E was a 36-year-old P4+0(all alive) who presented on 18/4/22 with a 10year history of anterior vulval swelling which was progressive and painless. She had female genital mutilation in childhood. Treatment with cyst excision under anaesthesia was done and the postoperative period was satisfactory. Conclusion: The clitoridal cyst is a long term complication of FGM. Women with clitoridal cysts often present late when they can no longer cope with the size of the cyst or when complications have occurred. At this stage treatment may be complicated, hence there is a need to increase public awareness of this condition through reporting, female education and sensitization.