Skene's Gland

A Skene's gland is on each side of the urethral opening. It is normally neither seen nor felt, although close inspection will reveal the pinpoint openings of these periurethral glands.

When infected, the Skene's gland will become enlarged and tender. A simple incision and drainage of the gland will generally result in complete resolution. Topical anesthetic (20% benzocaine, or "Hurricaine") can be applied to the cyst with a  cotton-tipped applicator and allowed to sit for 3-4 minutes. A single stab wound by a scalpel opens the abscess and allows for drainage of the pus. Cultures, particularly for gonorrhea, should be obtained. While in a civilian setting, antibiotics would be optional (pending culture results), they are very helpful in an operational settings. Good choices for antibiotics would include those most helpful for treating urethritis: Cefixime 400 mg orally in a single dose, OR Ceftriaxone 125 mg IM in a single dose, OR Ciprofloxacin 500 mg orally in a single dose, OR Ofloxacin 400 mg orally in a single dose, PLUS Azithromycin 1 g orally in a single dose, OR Doxycycline 100 mg orally twice a day for 7 days.

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