Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 10/9/2008

Question
I had an epidural 17 years ago with the birth of my son. Ever since then I get an infection at the site once every 12 months - 18 months. Usually is is the size of a dime and I can drain the infection out myself. This year the size of the infection has grown to about an 1 1/2 inches and is very painful to the touch. I am unable to squeeze the infection out on my own. Should I have this drained by a Doctor or just wait another week to see if the infection will burst thru the skin on it's own accord? Thanks for any help in this matter.

Answer
Hi Laurie
You should go and explain the situation to a doctor and get it seen to. It sounds like you must have a small piece if something underneath your skin that occasionally gets infected. I can only think this is something that was introduced with the needle used for the epidural. It is possible for the needle to drag in some superficial skin cells that then form a small cyst in your back. This maybe getting inflammed periodically.
I think this is the most likely explanation - but go and get it treated.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson