Anal Abscess
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An anal abscess is an infected cavity filled with pus found near the anus or rectum. Ninety percent of
abscesses are the result of an acute infection in the internal glands of the anus. Occasionally,
bacteria, fecal material or foreign matter can clog an anal gland and tunnel into the tissue around the
anus or rectum, where it may then collect in a cavity called an abscess.
The most common two type of abscess
(A). Perianal abscess often appears as a painful boil-like swelling near the anus. It may be red in colour and warm to the touch. Anal abscesses located in deeper tissue are less common and may be less visible
About 50% of patients with an anal abscess will develop a complication called a fistula. A fistula is a small tunnel that makes an abnormal connection between the site of the abscess and the skin.
In some cases, an anal fistula causes persistent drainage. In other cases, where the outside of the tunnel opening closes, the result may be recurrent anal abscesses
(B). The perirectal abscess forms when blockage occurs to the ducts of the anal glands. An infection develops which causes pus to accumulate. The anal abscess then progresses into the anal spaces. Approximately 25% of perirectal abscesses result in fistula. In rare cases, death can occur if there is inappropriate treatment of a perirectal abscess.
Causes
1.A rectal examination may confirm an Common causes of anorectal abscess include:
2. Blocked glands in the anal area
3. Infection of an anal fissure
4. Sexually transmitted infection
5. Deep rectal abscesses may be caused by intestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease or diverticulitis
6. The following factors increase your risk of an anorectal abscess
7. Anal sex
8. Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer
9. Diabetes
10. Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis)
11. Use of corticosteroid medicines
12. Weakened immune system (such as from HIV / AIDS)
13. The condition may occur in infants and toddlers who are still in diapers and who have a history of anal fissures
Symptoms
Exams and Tests
Anorectal abscess. A proctosigmoidoscopy may be done to rule out other diseases.
In rare cases, a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound is needed to locate the collection of pus.
Treatment
1. The problem rarely goes away on its own.
2. Antibiotics alone usually cannot treat an abscess.
3. Treatment involves surgery to open and drain the abscess.
4. If the pus collection is deep, you may need to stay in the hospital until the abscess has completely drained.
5. After treatment, you need warm sitz baths (sitting in a tub of warm water). This helps relieve pain, reduce swelling, and make the abscess easier to drain.
6. Drained abscesses are usually left open and no stitches are needed.
7. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication and antibiotics.
8. You may need stool softeners. Practice good hygiene. Eat a soft or liquid diet until the abscess has healed.
9. Continuing pain
10. Problem keeps coming back (recurrence)
11. Scars
Prevention
Prevention or prompt treatment of sexually transmitted diseases may prevent an anorectal abscess from forming. Use condoms during intercourse, including anal sex, to prevent such infections.
In infants and toddlers, frequent diaper changes and proper cleaning during diaper changes can help prevent both anal fissures and abscesses.
Good hygiene and cleanliness in the anal area is an important safeguard for both children and adults.
If you notice any anal problems, make sure to contact your doctor to get treatment and to prevent them from becoming worse.
Alternative Names
Anal abscess; Rectal abscess; Perirectal abscess; Perianal abscess; anal gland abscess; Abscess – anorectal Anal abscess; Rectal abscess; Perirectal abscess; Perianal abscess; anal gland abscess; Abscess - anorectal
When to Contact a Medical Professional Call your health care provider if:
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