Anal Abscess​

An anal abscess is a collection of pus which forms near the anus, mainly due to infection from the small anal glands. One type of abscess is a perirectal abscess, which is a collection of pus that forms in the deep tissue around the anus. But the most common type of abscess is a perianal abscess which is a shallower and more serious case of pus under the skin surrounding the anus, which often appears as a painful boil-like swelling. This swelling may seem red in colour and feel warm to the touch. In some instances, a perianal abscess may appear from infected skin that is adjacent to the anus. Both perirectal and perianal abscesses are sometimes referred to as anal abscesses. 

Possible causes of anal abscesses include:

• Infection of an anal fissure​​– this is a small superficial tear in the skin of your anal canal

• Infections transmitted sexually 

• Obstructed anal glands.

Amongst others, some risk factors that increase the chances of developing perianal accesses include diabetes, inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn’s disease​) and certain medications. You should seek medical attention of either form of abscess; however a perirectal abscess is considered the more severe form of infection. A delay in treatment has the potential to worsen condition and unavoidable complications, eventually developing into a serious systematic infection.

When to seek expert advise

If you suspect that you may have anal abscess, you should seek the advice of a healthcare professional working with the Section of Gastroenterology at The Aga Khan University Hospital. However, you should go to 24/7 Emergency and Acute Care Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• High fever 
  

• Shaking chills
  

• Severe anal or rectal pain
  

• An inability to have a bowel movement or a very painful bowel movement 
  

• Persistent vomiting 
  

• Any other concerning symptoms or indicators that suggest an emergency situation.