RECTAL ABSCESS / ANAL ABSCESS

WHAT IS A RECTAL ABSCESS?

A rectal or anal abscess is a pus-filled cavity found in the region of the rectum or anus. The condition is quite painful and usually results from infection of one of the small internal anal glands.
It is more common in men.
The extent and severity of the abscess may vary; but it should be noted that quite commonly, a rectal abscess may be associated with formation of a fistula ( in almost 50% cases ) and hence needs proper evaluation and treatment

TYPES OF RECTAL ABSCESS

Depending upon their anatomic location, rectal abscesses are classified into 4 types ( this classification is important for the treating doctor and maybe difficult to understand as a patient ):

• Perianal: Most common type
• Ischiorectal: May spread to the opposite side to form a horseshoe abscess
• Intersphincteric: Extremely painful
• Supralevator: Least common type

CAUSES OF RECTAL ABSCESS

• Bacterial Infection of the internal anal glands – Most common cause ( 90% cases )
• Crohns disease, Ulcerative colitis
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases, receptive partner in anal sex
• Diabetes
• Trauma
• Tuberculosis
• Immunodeficiency due to HIV or malignancy

SYMPTOMS OF RECTAL ABSCESS

• Throbbing pain that worsens on sitting
• Redness, swelling, pain on touch
• Discharge of pus
• Rectal bleeding
• Constipation due to painful defecation
• Fever with/without chills in deep seated abscesses

DIAGNOSIS OF RECTAL ABSCESS

     Diagnosis is usually arrived at by a history of your symptoms and clinical evaluation. This includes a digital rectal examination. Occasionally, other tests may be required to find out the extent of the abscess or to screen for the cause that led to it.

TREATMENT OF RECTAL ABSCESS

A rectal or anal abscess is best treated by a Proctologist who has thorough knowledge of the anatomy of the region. Once an abscess is detected it is best to get it surgically drained immediately. Depending upon the size and location of the abscess, local or general anesthesia is used.

At Healing Hands Clinic, Laser is used for making an incision. Following this the pus is drained out. Laser is once again used to debride the walls of the abscess cavity. Following the procedure medicines like pain-killers, antibiotics are given.