Anal Fistula

Overview
Small canal that develops between the end of the anal passage and the skin near the anus
Symptoms
Bloody and purulent discharge
Pain when passing stool
Discharged of pus
Classification
Simple or Complex – depending if its single track or has interconnections
Low or High – depending on the positioning and how close is to the sphincter muscles (anus)
Causes
- Develops after an anal abscess
- IBS
- Diverticulitis
Statistics
- Affects up to 50% of people suffering from Chron’s disease
- Affects up to 30% of people with HIV
- Affects up to 30-50% people suffering from anal abscess – more common in women