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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Anorectal Abscess
      Category : Health Centers > Digestive System

Anorectal Abscess

Alternate Names : Perirectal Abscess, Perianal Abscess

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Pictures and Images | Attribution


An anorectal abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the anus and/or the area just above it, called the rectum.

What is going on in the body?

Most anorectal abscesses begin as bacterial infections of the glands in the anus that produce mucus. Infection can cause inflammation. Inflammation creates a wall around the bacteria and forms an abscess. This protective wall makes it hard for the immune system to fight the bacteria.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Most anorectal abscesses are caused by bacterial infection in the lining of the anus or rectum. Factors that increase a person's risk for an abscess include:

  • chronic constipation
  • diabetes
  • inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis
  • immunodeficiency disorders, such as HIV
  • pregnancy

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    Anorectal Abscess: Symptoms & Signs

    Author: Adam Brochert, MD
    Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
    Date Reviewed: 09/26/01









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    Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006