Abscesses and fistulas are two conditions affecting the anus.
An anal abscess is most commonly the result of an infection of an internal gland of the anus. Sometimes they can be associated with Crohn’s disease. They often require incision and drainage in the office or in the operating room. Approximately 1/3 of abscesses can result in an anal fistula.
An anal fistula is a tunnel that tracks from an opening inside the anal canal to an external opening in the skin near the anus or on the buttocks. The infection burrows through the wall of the anus and eventually drains through the skin external to the anus.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
- An abscess can cause swelling, redness and pain around the anal opening. Sometimes you can have a fever or chills.
- The predominant symptom of an anal fistula is drainage of fluid or pus from a small opening near the anus. This drainage may be intermittent as the external opening can temporarily close, but will eventually re-open as the tract fills with fluid.
Treatment Options
- An abscess requires evaluation and often drainage of the infection. Sometimes antibiotics are used.
- Treatment of anal fistula can be complex. Options can be discussed with your colorectal surgeon.