Malabsorption

Question 1

What is a perianal abscess?

Answer 1

A collection of pus within the subcutaneous tissue of the anus that has tracked from the tissue surrounding the anal sphincter

Question 2

Who gets perianal abscesses?

Answer 2

They are more common in men (M:F 2:1)

The average age of patients is around 40 years

Question 3

What are the presenting features of perianal abscesses?

Answer 3

Anal pain worse on sitting
Hardened tissue in the anal region
Pus-like anal discharge
Systemic infection

Question 4

What causes perianal abscesses?

Answer 4

E. coli from gut flora

S. aureus from skin

Question 5

What investigations are done for a perianal abscess?

Answer 5

Inspection
DRE

To find cause:
Colonoscopy
Blood tests (culture, inflammatory markers)

MRI or transperianal US when there are complications

Question 6

What underlying disorders can cause perianal abscesses?

Answer 6

IBD
esp. Crohn’s

DM

Malignancy

Question 7

What is the treatment for perianal abscesses?

Answer 7

Incision and drainage under local

ABs if systemic upset