Difference between perianal abscess and anal fistula

Perianal abscess and anal fistula are two common anal diseases. Although they are both related to perianal infection, they have obvious differences in etiology, symptoms and treatment. Simply put, perianal abscess is the accumulation of pus caused by anal gland infection, while anal fistula is an abnormal channel formed after perianal abscess ruptures or incomplete drainage. Understanding the difference between the two will help better prevent and treat them.

1. Causes and formation process: Perianal abscesses are usually caused by bacterial infection leading to anal gland obstruction, which in turn causes pus accumulation. If the abscess is not treated in time, the pus may spontaneously rupture or be drained through surgery, which can easily form an anal fistula. Anal fistula refers to an abnormal channel formed between the skin inside the anus and the outside, usually the result of an abscess rupture.

2. Symptoms: For perianal abscesses, patients usually feel severe pain around the anus, accompanied by fever, redness, swelling and other inflammatory symptoms. Anal fistulas may be manifested as repeated anal pus discharge, itching and repeated infections. The pain is usually not as strong as that of abscesses, but long-term unhealed pus discharge can cause discomfort and distress.

3. Diagnosis and treatment methods: The diagnosis of perianal abscess usually relies on clinical manifestations and physical examinations. If necessary, ultrasound or MRI can be used to confirm the location of the abscess. In terms of treatment, abscesses usually require surgical incision and drainage to prevent the spread of infection. The treatment of anal fistula is more complicated and often requires surgical removal of the fistula to completely cure it and prevent recurrence.

In daily life, maintaining good anal hygiene and healthy eating habits are important measures to prevent perianal abscesses and anal fistulas. If related symptoms occur, you should seek medical attention in time to avoid delaying treatment. Understanding the difference between perianal abscesses and anal fistulas can help us better identify and deal with these problems and protect our health. I hope this article can provide you with useful information, and you are also welcome to continue to pay attention to relevant health knowledge.