The difference between high and low perianal abscess

The difference between high perianal abscess and low perianal abscess lies mainly in the anatomical location of the abscess, symptoms and treatment methods. High perianal abscess is located deeper, often accompanied by more obvious systemic infection symptoms, and is more complicated to diagnose and treat; low perianal abscess is located superficially, symptoms are mainly limited to local pain and redness, and surgical treatment is relatively easy. Depending on the patient's condition, different treatment plans are required for the two: including dressings, drainage, and surgical intervention when necessary.

1. Difference in anatomical position

High perianal abscesses are located in the deep space above the anal sphincter, while low perianal abscesses are located near the skin around the anus. High perianal abscesses are usually caused by endogenous infection, such as infection of deep intestinal glands. The lesions are deep and difficult to detect. Low perianal abscesses are closer to the skin, so local swelling and pain are more obvious, and they often occur after external wounds or skin damage infections. The difference in positioning determines the complexity of the examination of the two types of abscesses: low perianal abscesses can be diagnosed by naked eye or palpation, while high perianal abscesses often require the use of imaging equipment such as B-ultrasound and CT.

2. Differences in symptoms

Low-positioned perianal abscesses usually present with redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the perianal skin. In severe cases, small local lumps may form, and pus may even be discharged. The symptoms are relatively limited. High-positioned perianal abscesses are more difficult to perceive, and are often accompanied by fever, general fatigue, and dull pain in the local pelvic area. In severe cases, defecation difficulties or a feeling of urgency may occur, which also leads to a high misdiagnosis rate.

Recommendation: If the anus becomes red and swollen, there is persistent pain, or there is a fever, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid high-level persistent infection that may endanger the pelvic and abdominal cavities.

3. Differences in treatment methods

The treatment of low perianal abscess is relatively simple. In the early stage, it can be relieved by local hot compress or anti-infective drugs (such as cephalosporin, levofloxacin); after the formation of abscess, pus drainage should be performed in time, and wound care and anti-inflammatory treatment should be done after surgery. High perianal abscess often requires surgical treatment, such as anal fistula incision, abscess drainage and even sphincter repair, to avoid the spread of infection. Postoperative recovery is generally slow. The diet should be light, supplement with dietary fiber such as green leafy vegetables and oats, and avoid constipation causing wound damage.

4. Causes and preventive measures

High perianal abscess is related to deep infection, inflammatory bowel disease, low immunity, etc., while low perianal abscess is mostly caused by infection after local skin damage or anal fissure. Frequent constipation, long-term sitting, poor diet, poor anal hygiene, etc. are all causes of these diseases. Paying attention to maintaining smooth bowel movements, a reasonable diet, not sitting for long periods of time, and cleaning the perianal area in daily life is the key to prevention.

Whether it is a high or low perianal abscess, early detection and early treatment are very important to prevent the spread of pus or transformation into a complex anal fistula. Although there are solutions to the disease, we need to pay more attention to a healthy lifestyle. If similar symptoms have already appeared, do not delay, and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Under the guidance of a doctor, choose the most suitable treatment plan to avoid aggravating the condition due to neglect. Maintaining regular bowel habits and clean perianal skin is the best care for the body. I hope these tips can help everyone, let us grasp every day of health together.