What causes perirectal infections, and how are they treated?

S.Y.

Perirectal infections refer to infections arising in the area of the anus and lower rectum. Typically, these infections begin at a break in the skin, such as an anal fissure, a hemorrhoid or an injury. The infection usually begins at a small gland and tracks up through the tissue and spreads from there. In most cases, a collection of pus, known as an abscess, will form.

Treatment of a perirectal abscess involves surgical drainage. This is accomplished by placing a needle into the abscess and cutting it open. If the infection has also affected adjacent areas, antibiotics may also be needed to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body. In many cases, a fistula may be found in association with an abscess. A fistula is an abnormal connection between the skin and another area. The fistula may also be removed by the colorectal surgeon at the time of abscess drainage or later after the inflammatory response has diminished.

In patients who are treated for perirectal infections, it is important to consider the possibility of other conditions that predispose the patient to infection. Patients who have Crohn's disease or who have depressed immune function are at higher risk for developing these types of infection.