Definition

Acute or chronic pain in and around the anus.

Causes

Multiple, including fissure, abscess, hemorrhoids, pelvic floor dysfunction and, very rarely, cancer.

Symptoms

Pain that may be sharp, burning, constant or intermittent, associated with other symptoms or present all the time.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A thorough examination is the most important aspect of diagnosis combined with the nature and character of the pain.  Treatment is dependent upon underlying cause.

Visit the American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons website for more information