Anal Abscess

An anal abscess is a painful swelling that develops near the anus or the skin of the buttock. An anal abscess arises from an infection of an anal gland that lies within the anal canal. The infection tracks down the path of least resistance and usually forms a painful, red swelling at the skin. Treatment is with surgical drainage.

Prompt assessment and treatment is required to prevent the infection from becoming worse and tracking into deeper tissues.

About half of cases of anal abscess may then develop into an anal fistula. This is usually evident as a small, discharging and non-healing wound at the site of the incision. It indicates an ongoing abnormal passageway from the anal canal to the skin and usually requires further surgery.