A perianal abscess is a painful, pus-filled swelling near the anus or rectum. Most of these abscesses are caused by a blockage in the anal gland that eventually leads to an infection. Left untreated, perianal abscesses may form anal fistulas or progress into a systemic infection.

Most perianal abscesses occur when bacteria or foreign material enter and clog an anal gland, or when an anal fissure becomes infected.

Perianal abscesses are mainly characterized by a dull, throbbing pain in the anal or rectal region that gets worse when sitting or defecating. The boil-like abscess may be tender and warm to the touch, and may drain pus spontaneously over time.

Perianal abscesses accompanied by fever, fatigue, chills, constipation, vomiting, extreme pain, or rectal bleeding and discharge, may be indicative of a serious infection and usually requires immediate medical attention.

Surgical incision and drainage under General anaesthesia