The relationship between perianal abscess and anal fistula

There is a close relationship between perianal abscess and anal fistula. Perianal abscess is often one of the early symptoms or causes of anal fistula. For these two diseases, it is very important to recognize their correlation and take appropriate treatment methods.

Perianal abscess refers to an acute suppurative infection of the soft tissues around the anal canal, forming an abscess. Anal fistula refers to an abnormal channel formed when an abscess fails to heal completely. This channel connects the anal canal or rectum with the skin around the anus, causing pus to flow out and repeated infection. If perianal abscess is not treated promptly and effectively, pus will spread to the surface or deep tissues, penetrate the anal canal wall, and form anal fistula.

1. Genetic factors: Some patients have familial correction (or genetic quality), and the congenital anatomical structure of the anal canal and rectum is fragile, making them more susceptible to infection and abscesses.

2. Environment and living habits: Sitting or standing for too long, obesity, and improper diet (such as excessive intake of spicy or greasy food) will increase the risk of perianal abscess. People in high-risk occupations (such as office workers, drivers, etc.) need to pay special attention.

3. Physiological factors: Patients with low immunity, diabetes and other chronic diseases are more likely to develop perianal abscesses. If the abscess is not removed in time, the infection will expand the scope of infection, and the condition will worsen and anal fistula will form.

4. Early treatment: The early symptoms of perianal abscess include local swelling, pain and fever. Timely discovery and timely medication can curb the progression of the disease. Commonly used drugs include antibiotics (such as sulfonamides, cephalosporins) combined with anti-edema drugs.

5. Surgical treatment: Once the diagnosis of perianal abscess is confirmed, the most effective method is surgical treatment. Common surgeries include abscess incision and drainage, anal fistula resection (treatment of anal fistula), hanging thread therapy and subcutaneous fistula resection. After surgery, patients should pay attention to keeping the local area dry and clean to prevent secondary infection.

6. Diet and lifestyle adjustment: The postoperative diet focuses on high fiber, low spicy food and drinking plenty of water to prevent constipation and promote wound healing. Do more moderate exercise every day, improve your lifestyle habits, and avoid adverse factors such as sitting for a long time.

Although perianal abscess and anal fistula are two different diseases, they are closely related clinically. Early diagnosis, timely treatment and postoperative care are crucial. For patients whose condition worsens or who have not been cured for a long time, they should go to the hospital for further examination and receive systematic treatment according to the doctor's advice. Through comprehensive management, we can better prevent and treat perianal abscess and anal fistula and improve the quality of life.