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Anal Abscess
Anal Abscess Overview
A perirectal abscess is a collection of pus in the deep tissues surrounding the anus. By contrast, a perianal abscess is a shallower collection of pus under the skin surrounding the anus. Both types of abscesses need immediate attention. A delay in treatment may cause serious worsening of the condition and unnecessary complications.
Anal Abscess Causes
Perirectal and perianal abscesses are thought to develop from the glands surrounding the anus. These glands may plug up, leading to infection. When they fill with pus, they may burst inward, releasing their infected contents into the spaces around the rectum and anus. This pus causes an abscess, or pus collection, in the spaces surrounding the rectum or anus. The anal abscess may enlarge, causing pain, fever, and difficulty with bowel movements.
Certain people are more likely to develop perirectal and perianal abscesses, including those with the following medical problems:
- Diabetes
- AIDS or HIV infection with low white blood cell counts
- Crohn disease
- Persons on medications that suppress the body's immune system, such as steroids (prednisone, methylprednisolone), or those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer
Anal Abscess Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of perirectal and perianal abscesses include the following:
- Pain in the anal area or buttocks
- Fever
- A lump in the anal area
- Painful bowel movements
- Lower abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the anal area or buttocks
- Night sweats
When to Seek Medical Care
If you suspect you have a perirectal or perianal abscess, see a doctor. The diagnosis is not always easy to make, and your doctor may need to do tests or consult with specialists.
Go to an emergency department when you have any of the following symptoms:
- High fever or shaking chills
- Significant pain
- Inability to have a bowel movement, or a painful bowel movement
- Persistent vomiting
- Any other unusual signs or symptoms that may indicate an emergency condition
Exams and Tests
See a doctor if you suspect that you have an anal abscess. She or he will ask questions about your condition. Give the doctor all necessary information. Discussing the details may be embarrassing, but to ensure your privacy, your doctor is required to maintain confidentiality. Your honest responses to your doctor's questions will help her or him to help you.
- The doctor will then examine you. She or he or will explain which parts of the exam may be uncomfortable and will be careful to protect your modesty.
- The doctor should provide clear answers to any questions you have, and you should understand the treatment plan.
- Sometimes the diagnosis is obvious, and no tests are needed. At other times, blood and urine tests and special imaging tests such as x-ray, CT scan, MRI, and ultrasound may be needed. The doctor may also consult other specialists to confirm the diagnosis or to come up with the best treatment plan.
WebMD Medical Reference from eMedicineHealth
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