Health Encyclopedia

Anorectal abscess

Definition

An anorectal abscess is a collection of pus in the anal or rectal region.

Alternative Names

Anal abscess; Rectal abscess; Abscess - anorectal

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Infection of an anal fissure, sexually transmitted infections, and blocked anal glands are common causes of anorectal abscesses. Deep rectal abscesses may be caused by intestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease or diverticulitis.

The following factors increase your risk for an anorectal abscess:

Diabetes
A weakened immune system
Engaging in anal sex
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis)

The condition may occur in infants and toddlers who are still in diapers and who have a history of anal fissures. The abscess often appears as a swollen, red, tender lump at the edge of the anus. The infant may be fussy from discomfort, but there are generally no other symptoms.

Symptoms

Painful, hardened tissue in the perianal area
Discharge of pus from the rectum
Lump or nodule, swollen, red, tender at edge of anus
Fever
Pain associated with bowel movements
Constipation (may occur)

Signs and tests

A rectal examination may confirm that you have an anorectal abscess. A proctosigmoidoscopy may be done to rule out other diseases.

Treatment

Treatment involves draining the abscess. If the abscess is very deep, you may need surgery to have this done.

Warm sitz baths (sitting in a tub of warm water) may help relieve pain and swelling, and may help make the abscess easier to drain.

Your doctor may prescribe pain medication and antibiotics.

Expectations (prognosis)

With prompt treatment, a patient usually does well. Infants and toddlers usually recover very quickly.

Complications

Systemic infection
Anal fistula formation
Recurrence
Scarring

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you notice a rectal discharge, symptoms of an anorectal abscess develop. You should also call if you have fever, chills, or other new symptoms after being treated for this condition.

Prevention

Prevention or prompt treatment sexually transmitted diseases may prevent this cause of anorectal abscesses. Use condoms during intercourse, including anal sex, to prevent such infections.

Frequent diaper changes and proper cleaning during diaper changes will help prevent both anal fissures and perianal abscesses in infants and toddlers.

Review Date:7/14/2006
Reviewed By:J.A. Lee, M.D., Division of Surgery, UCSF, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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