What is a rectal abscess?
Rectal abscess if an inflammatory process developed in the soft parts around the rectum, which is caused by a bacterial infection of the rectal glands. The inflammation of the glands spreads to the connective tissue around the rectum, which causes the development of an abscess containing purulent excretion.
The infection responsible for the development of the rectal abscess is most often triggered by the bacteria that are normally present in the rectum. In rare cases, it might be caused by enteritis. The chance of developing a rectal abscess is enhanced by lack of hygiene, diabetes, a weakness of the immune system, and an injury around the rectum.
What are the symptoms of rectal abscess?
The symptom of rectal abscess is a painful swelling near the rectum, with skin redness, accompanied by high fever and cold shivers. In many instances, walking and sitting down might become painful, and a sensitivity for pressure appears on the affected area.
A common symptom is a disorder in passing stool, which can lead to withholding stool, or constipation. In men, even disorders of urination might develop. When the abscess opens up, purulent excretion can be observed.
How can rectal abscess be treated?
Diagnosing rectal abscess is done by physical examination. After the diagnosis is made, the abscess needs to be opened, which is done with laser at our clinic, in local anesthesia. The opening created during the procedure needs to stay open until the abscess completely empties, which might take days. In certain cases, bacterial culture is also done from a sample taken from the abscess, and antibiotic treatment can also be necessary.
