An anorectal Abscess is a pus-filled cavity caused by bacteria invading a mucus-secreting gland in the anus and rectum. An Abscess may be deep in the rectum or close to the opening of the anus. An Abscess develops when bacteria invade a mucus-secreting gland in the anus or rectum, where they multiply. Although the anus is an area that is rich in bacteria, infection generally does not occur because the internal sphincter acts as a barrier and blood flow to the area is rich. When infection does occur, it usually is caused by a combination of different types of bacteria. An Abscess can cause substantial damage to nearby tissues and may lead to incontinence of stool.

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

Digestive System

Rectum

Infection of an Anal Fissure, sexually transmitted infections, and blocked anal glands are common causes of anorectal abscesses. Abscesses may occur in an area that is easily accessible for drainage, or higher in the rectum. Deep rectal abscesses may be caused by intestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease or Diverticulitis. High-risk groups include diabetics, immunocompromised patients, people who engage in receptive anal sex, and patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Abscesses just under the Skin can be swollen, red, tender, and very painful. Abscesses higher in the rectum often cause fewer symptoms but may produce fever and pain in the lower Abdomen. Other symptoms include:

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.

A doctor can usually see an Abscess if it is in the Skin around the anus. When no external swelling or redness is seen, however, a doctor can make the diagnosis by examining the rectum with a gloved finger. A tender swelling in the rectum indicates an Abscess. A proctosigmoidoscopy may be performed to exclude associated diseases.

Antibiotics have limited value except for people who have a fever, diabetes, or an infection elsewhere in the body. Usually, treatment consists of cutting into the Abscess and draining the pus after a local anaesthetic has been given. Occasionally, a person is hospitalized and undergoes general anesthesia before a doctor cuts and drains an Abscess. Warm sitz baths (sitting in a tub of warm water) are useful for relief of pain and swelling, and may assist with localization of the Abscess to permit drainage. Pain medication and antibiotics may be needed.

In adults and adolescents, prompt treatment or prevention of sexually transmitted diseases may prevent this cause of anorectal abscesses. Use condoms for anal intercourse to prevent such infections. Frequent diaper changes and attention to hygiene and cleansing at diaper changes will help prevent both anal fissures and perianal abscesses in infants and toddlers.

The probable outcome is good if the Abscess is treated promptly. Infants and toddlers usually recover very quickly.

Systemic infection Anal fistula formation Recurrence Scarring