Print | Search | Send-to-Friend | Health Library Home

Anal Abscess

(Anal Rectal Abscess; Anorectal Abscess)

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA

• Definition • Causes • Risk Factors • Symptoms • Diagnosis • Treatment • Prevention
 

Definition

An anal abscess is a pus-filled pocket in the spaces around the anus and rectum. It may be near the surface of the anal opening or deeper in the rectum.

 

Causes    TOP

This problem is caused by a bacterial infection. It may happen when there is a blockage in one or more of the anal glands. Or it may be from an anal fistula.

The Anus

si1229_96472_1

Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

 

Risk Factors    TOP

Anal abscesses are more common in men. Other things that may raise the risk are:

  • Certain health problems, such as Crohn disease, ulcerative colitis, or sexually transmitted infections
  • Medicines that suppress the immune system
  • Pregnancy
  • Anal intercourse
  • Diabetes
 

Symptoms    TOP

Symptoms depend on where the abscess is located. Problems may be:

  • Painful bowel movements
  • Pain and tenderness from an abscess that is near the surface
  • Lower belly pain from an abscess that is deeper in the rectum
  • Redness and swelling of an abscess that is near the surface
  • Drainage
  • Fever
 

Diagnosis    TOP

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. An abscess near the surface of the skin may be seen during the exam. A digital exam of the rectum may need to be done.

Imaging tests are not usually needed, but may be:

  • Ultrasound
  • MRI scan
  • CT scan
 

Treatment    TOP

An anal abscess needs to be drained right away. The type of procedure depends on its location and depth.

Medicines may also be needed to ease pain and swelling.

 

Prevention    TOP

The risk of this problem can be lowered by managing health problems that raise the risk of infection.

RESOURCES:

American College of Gastroenterology
http://patients.gi.org

American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons
https://www.fascrs.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Canadian Association of Gastroenterology
https://www.cag-acg.org

Canadian Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons
http://cscrs.ca

REFERENCES:

Abscess and fistula expanded information. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons website. Available at: https://www.fascrs.org/patients/disease-condition/abscess-and-fistula-expanded-information. Accessed January 8, 2021.

Anorectal abscess. Johns Hopkins Medicine website. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/anorectal-abscess. Accessed January 8, 2021.

Fistula in ano and anorectal abscess. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/fistula-in-ano-and-anorectal-abscess. Accessed January 8, 2021.

Vogel JD, Johnson EK, et al. Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Anorectal Abscess, Fistula-in-Ano, and Rectovaginal Fistula. Dis Colon Rectum. 2016 Dec;59(12):1117-1133.



Last reviewed December 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated: 1/8/2021

EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.

Copyright ©  EBSCO Information Services
All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy | Editorial Policy