A perianal abscess may affect patients of any age.
The patient complains of a gradual onset of pain around the anus. The pain becomes more severe and throbs. The condition makes defaecation and sitting painful.
The patient may be sitting with one buttock raised, which is pathognomonic of the condition. On examination, the abscess may be seen deep in the skin next to the anus. There is localised tenderness and swelling. Proctoscopic examination may reveal the damaged opening to the affected gland - pus may be seen discharging from it.
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