Anorectal Abscess

Overview

Like any abscess, an anorectal abcess should be treated promptly so it doesn't progress into a serious infection. Fortunately, the majority of anorectal abscesses are easily treated. Some, however, are in hard-to-reach locations and take more complicated forms, making treatment more challenging. Mayo Clinic specialists are highly skilled and experienced in diagnosing and treating even the most unusual abscesses.

Diagnosis

How easily an anorectal abscess can be diagnosed depends largely on its location. Mayo Clinic doctors have the experience and tools to accurately locate and recognize anal abscesses and to rule out other disorders that can have similar symptoms. Read more about anorectal abscess diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Abscesses require prompt drainage. After the abscess has been drained, patients with conditions that make them more susceptible to infection are usually prescribed antibiotics. How the drainage is performed will depend on the location of the abscess. Read more about anorectal abscess treatment options.

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About Anorectal Abscesses

An anorectal abscess is a collection of pus, surrounded by inflammation, in the area of the anus or rectum. The infection originates in an anal gland and may contain bacteria from either feces or skin.

A throbbing or dull aching pain in the anal region is usually the main symptom of an anorectal abscess. Walking, straining, coughing or sneezing may aggravate the pain. A patient may or may not also feel a swollen mass, depending on its location. Additional symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Urinary retention
• Discharge of pus

An anorectal abscess can often lead to an anorectal fistula — a tiny tunnel in the body with one opening in the anal canal and the other opening in the skin near the anus. Untreated, an abscess can progress into a necrotizing (tissue-killing) and life-threatening systemic infection.