An anal abscess is one that develops in
the tissues around the anus.
A number of small glands
are normally present between the inner and outer layers of the anal
sphincter muscle. Bacteria may lodge in these glands, starting
infection. An abscess develops from this infective process. This may
extend to various areas around the anal canal to involve the anal
sphincter muscle and surrounding structures. The abscess may enlarge and
burst through the overlying skin. Surgery may be required. If left
untreated, it can lead to life threatening complications like
necrotizing faciitis.
Throbbing pain is the main symptom and is
due to increased pressure in the abscess. Other symptoms are fever and
sweating.
The pus is drained from the abscess cavity
by making an incision on the overlying skin. This may require general
anaesthesia if the abscess is large. Smaller abscesses can be drained
under local anaesthesia. Hospitilization may be required. Antibiotics
are required to control the spread of the infection, but antibiotics
alone will not cure an abscess. Drainage of the pus is always necessary.
