Overview
Anorectal abscess is a painful condition that occurs when pus accumulates in the tissue surrounding the anus or rectum due to infection. It commonly results from blocked anal glands, leading to bacterial overgrowth and inflammation. If left untreated, an abscess can develop into a fistula or cause severe systemic infection.
What is Anorectal Abscess?
An anorectal abscess is a localized infection in the anal or rectal region that results in a collection of pus. It often starts from a small infection in the anal glands and may develop rapidly, causing significant discomfort. These abscesses can occur in various locations including perianal (around the anus), ischiorectal (deep in the buttocks), intersphincteric (between internal and external anal muscles), or supralevator (above the pelvic floor).
Symptoms
- Severe pain in the anal or rectal area, especially when sitting or during bowel movements
- Swelling or a visible lump near the anus
- Redness and warmth around the affected area
- Fever and chills (indicating a spreading infection)
- Fatigue or general discomfort
- Pus or drainage from the anus (in advanced or burst abscesses)
- Constipation due to pain while passing stool
Causes
- Infection of the anal glands (cryptoglandular infection)
- Blocked anal ducts or glands
- Trauma to the anal region
- Anal fissures or tears
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Weakened immune system (e.g., in diabetes, HIV)
Risk Factors
- Male gender (more common in men)
- History of anorectal abscess or fistula
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Immunocompromised conditions (HIV/AIDS, diabetes)
- Inflammatory bowel diseases
- Anal intercourse
- Poor hygiene in the anal area
Complications
- Anal fistula (a tunnel forming between the abscess and skin)
- Recurrent abscesses
- Sepsis (a potentially life-threatening spread of infection)
- Tissue necrosis (rare but serious)
- Fecal incontinence (if surgery damages sphincter muscles)
Prevention
- Maintain good anal hygiene
- Manage chronic constipation or diarrhea effectively
- Treat underlying conditions like Crohn’s disease or diabetes
- Avoid trauma or injury to the anal area
- Use protection during anal intercourse
- Seek early treatment for anal discomfort or minor infections
Treatment Options in Korea
South Korea offers world-class surgical and non-surgical management of anorectal abscesses with a focus on patient comfort, minimally invasive procedures, and fast recovery.
1. Diagnosis
- Digital rectal examination by a colorectal specialist
- Ultrasound or MRI for deep abscesses
- CT scan in complex or recurrent cases
2. Surgical Drainage
- Incision and drainage (I&D): The primary treatment for most abscesses
- Performed under local, spinal, or general anesthesia depending on the depth and location
- Minimally invasive endoscopic drainage available in top hospitals
- Procedures are typically outpatient or involve short hospital stays
3. Post-operative Care
- Warm sitz baths
- Antibiotics (if infection is widespread or patient is immunocompromised)
- Pain management
- Regular wound dressing and follow-up
- High-fiber diet and stool softeners to reduce strain during bowel movements
4. Fistula Treatment (if developed)
- Fistulotomy or seton placement
- Laser ablation or LIFT procedure (for complex fistulas)
- Korea has advanced capabilities in fistula surgery with minimal risk to anal sphincter function
