IGNORE AFTER THIS [31] Anorectal Abscess Flashcards
What is an anorectal abscess?
A collection of pus in the anal or rectal region
Which gender are anorectal abscesses more common in?
Men
What are anorectal abscesses thought to be caused by?
Plugging of the anal ducts
What are the anal ducts?
Structures found in the wall of the anal canal which drain the anal glands
What do the anal ducts do?
Secrete mucus into the anal canal to ease the passage of faecal matter
What does blockage of the anal ducts cause?
Stasis
What does stasis caused by the blockage of the anal ducts allow?
Normal bacterial flora to overgrow, leading to infection
What are the common causative organisms for infection in anorectal abscesses?
E. Coli
Bacteroides
Enterococcus
Where are the anal glands located?
In the intersphincteric space
What is the intersphincteric space?
The space between the internal and external anal sphincters
What can happen once infection has started in the anal glands?
Infection can spread to adjacent areas
What can anorectal abscesses be classified on the basis of?
Where they occur
What are the classifications of anorectal abscesses?
Perianal
Ischiorectal
Intersphincteric
Supralevator
What course do anorectal abscesses take?
They are typically intermittent in nature
How do anorectal abscesses present?
Pain in perianal region, which is exacerbated when sitting down
Localised swelling, itching, or discharge