What Is an Anal Abscess and Fistula?
An anal abscess is an infection found near the rectum and anus typically resembled by a pus-filled cavity. The largest cause of an anal abscess is a bacterial infection or obstruction of the anal glands. If not treated, an anal abscess can progress into an anal fistula.
An anal fistula (fistula-in-ano) is a tunnel that forms between the inner lining of the anus and the exterior opening of the anus where stool leaves the body. The fistula is typically caused by an infection in the anal gland (anal abscess) but can also form without the presence of an anal abscess.
Causes of an Anal Abscess or Fistula?
There are many factors to consider when diagnosing an anal abscess or fistula. A patients health records will be reviewed for the presence of ulcerative colitis, Chron’s disease or trauma and radiation to the anal area due to surgery or anal cancer treatment. Additional risk factors that will be taken into consideration for an abscess or fistula are:
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Chronic constipation
- Inflammatory bowel syndrome
- Poor personal hygiene
Symptoms of an Anal Abscess or Fistula
The symptoms of an anal abscess or fistula can vary between patients; however, some common symptoms include:
- Inflammation, swelling and/or pain around the fistula tunnel opening.
- Exhaustion, fever and/or chills
- Drainage from the anus
- Difficulty moving around or sitting.
To get a conclusive diagnosis, a doctor or provider will review the symptoms above as well as conduct a physical examination to look around the anal area for signs of an abscess or fistula. To get a more extensive look at the abscess and fistula tunnel (if present), an MRI, CT scan or ultrasound may be necessary.
Treatment for an Anal Abscess or Fistula
Draining is the most common treatment for an anal abscess. After abscess has been drained, it will be treated with antibiotics to help prevent additional infection.
Surgery is the most common treatment option for a fistula. With an anal fistula procedure, all infected tissue is removed, and the fistula tunnel will be sealed off. For cases that are more severe, multiple procedures may be required.
No matter what treatment is being done, it is all being completed to help prevent abscesses and fistulas in the future and to protect the sphincter muscles.