An anorectal abscess is an infected, pus-filled cavity in the anal or rectal area that develops when bacteria infect a mucus-secreting gland in the anus or rectum.
The abscess may occur deep inside the rectum or close to the anus. Anorectal abscesses are associated with inflammatory bowel disorders, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis , and anal sex.
Symptoms may include swelling and redness in the anal area; throbbing pain in the anal area that worsens with defecation; a discharge of pus from the rectum; and sometimes fever.
Treatment usually involves surgery to drain the abscess, antibiotics to eliminate infection, and medication to relieve pain.