This topic is about a person who has been dealing with ulcerative colitis (UC) since their teenage years. They had emergency surgery 8 months ago due to a ruptured abscess that affected their colon. Now, they have an ostomy and a large stomal hernia. Since the surgery, they have been experiencing recurring large, hard abscesses in their legs and groin area. The leg abscesses sometimes resolve on their own, but the groin abscesses become very painful, burst with blood and pus, and make walking difficult. Despite consulting with doctors and nurses, the cause remains unidentified. They are seeking advice and experiences from others who might have faced similar issues.

Here are some insights and advice that might be helpful:

1. Consider investigating the following conditions:
- Pilonidal abscesses, which often occur in warm, hairy areas like the groin.
- Erythema nodosum, which usually does not rupture but is worth ruling out.
- Arterio-venous fistulas.
- Weber-Christian Disease, a condition that can form painful nodules.
- Fistulating Crohn’s disease, where infection tracks from the bowel through tissue and exits near the perineum or groin.

2. It is crucial to follow up with a medical professional. A knowledgeable gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon can help by culturing the lesions, imaging fistula tracts, and prescribing the right antibiotics or biologics.

3. When considering medication:
- Biologics like Remicade (infliximab) and Humira (adalimumab) are often used to close fistulas. However, they can increase the risk of skin infections and may cause allergic reactions.
- It is important to review your current medication regimen with your clinician to balance the risk of infection and control of fistulas.

4. For symptomatic relief, some strategies include:
- Applying drawing salves.
- Taking hot baths or using warm, moist compresses to encourage drainage and reduce pain.

5. It is reassuring to know that recurrent draining lesions are common in complications related to fistulating Crohn’s or UC. Timely specialist care can help minimize suffering and prevent systemic infection.