Unable to access or delete folder

Windows XP Media Center Edition SP2 - in the process of cleaning/tuning up this PC, I came across a folder in the system32 folder called drivex. Actually, it's a hidden folder in a folder; c:\windows\system32\drivex\drivex; the 2nd drivex is the hidden folder; it's parent folder is not hidden. I have not been able to access, delete, rename, whatever, this folder. I have tried changing the attributes from a command prompt, I have tried accessing the folder after booting to a PE CD (like Barts or the UBCD4Win). All attempts have been thwarted with a "Access is denied" error. At this point, I'm more interested in opening the folder so I can see what's in it, and see if it's needed or if it's malware. I've run numerous malware scans, but they all report that "folder drivex could not be opened" or something similar. I also looked to see if the user had installed some encryption-type software, and found none..... any thoughts, ideas, or suggestions and comments will be appreciated.
Thanks!
:-D