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Perianal abscesses are frequent diseases in general surgery. Principles of standard patient care are surgical drainage with exploration and concomitant treatment of fistula. Antiinfective therapy is frequently applied in cases of severe local disease and perianal sepsis. However, the role of microbiologic testing of purulence from perianal abscesses is disputed and the knowledge concerning bacteriology and bacterial resistances is very limited. A retrospective cohort study was performed of consecutive patients (≥ 12 years of age) from a tertiary care hospital, who underwent surgical treatment for perianal abscess from 01/2008 to 12/2019. Subdividing the cohort into three groups regarding microbiological testing results: no microbiological testing of purulence (No_Swab, n = 456), no detection of drug resistant bacteria [DR(−), n = 141] or detection of bacteria with acquired drug resistances from purulence [DR(+), n = 220]. Group comparisons were performed using Kruskall–Wallis test and, if applicable, followed by Dunn´s multiple comparisons test for continuous variables or Fishers exact or Pearson’s X2 test for categorical data. Fistula persistence was estimated by Kaplan Meier and compared between the groups using Log rank test. Corralation analysis between perioperative outcome parameters and bacteriology was performed using Spearman´s rho rank correlation. Higher pretherapeutic C-reactive protein (p Escherichia coli, Bacteroides, Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species with acquired drug resistances were detected frequently. High rates of resistances against everyday antibiotics, including perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis were alarming. In conclusion, the knowledge about individual bacteriology is relevant in cases of complex and severe local disease, including locally advanced infection with extended soft tissue affection and perianal sepsis, signs of systemic inflammatory response as well as the need of re-do surgery for local debridements during short-term and fistula repair during long-term follow-up. Higher rates of acquired antibiotic resistances are to be expected in patients with more severe diseases.

Purpose To evaluate and analyze the impact of lockdown strategy due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on emergency general surgery (EGS) in the Milan area at the beginning of pandemic outbreak. Methods A survey was distributed to 14 different hospitals of the Milan area to analyze the variation of EGS procedures. Each hospital reported the number of EGS procedures in the same time frame comparing 2019 and 2020. The survey revealed that the number of patients during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in 2020 was reduced by 19% when compared with 2019. The decrease was statistically significant only for abdominal wall surgery. Interestingly, in 2020, there was an increase of three procedures: surgical intervention for acute mesenteric ischemia (p = 0.002), drainage of perianal abscesses (p = 0.000285), and cholecystostomy for acute cholecystitis (p = 0.08). Conclusions During the first COVID-19 pandemic wave in the metropolitan area of Milan, the number of patients operated for emergency diseases decreased by around 19%. We believe that this decrease is related either to the fear of the population to ask for emergency department (ED) consultation and to a shift towards a more non-operative management in the surgeons ‘decision making’ process. The increase of acute mesenteric ischaemia and perianal abscess might be related to the modification of dietary habits and reduction of physical activity related to the lockdown.

To evaluate comparative outcomes of incision and drainage of cutaneous abscess with and without packing of the abscess cavity. A systematic search of multiple electronic data sources was conducted, and all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing incision and drainage of cutaneous abscess with and without packing were included. Abscess recurrence at maximum follow-up period, need for second intervention, and development of fistula in-ano were the evaluated outcome parameters for the meta-analysis A Trial Sequential Analysis was conducted to determine the robustness of the findings. Eight RCTs reporting a total number of 485 patients who underwent incision and drainage of cutaneous abscess with (n = 243) or without (n = 242) packing of the abscess cavity were included. There was no significant difference in the risk of recurrence (risk ratio (RR) 1.31, P = 0.56), fistula-in-ano (RR 0.63, P = 0.28), and need for second intervention (RR 0.70, P = 0.05) between two groups. The results remained unchanged on sub-group analyses for ano-rectal abscess, paediatric patients, adult patients, and the use of antibiotics. The Trial Sequential Analysis demonstrated that the meta-analysis was not conclusive, and the results for recurrence were subject to type 2 error. Incision and drainage of cutaneous abscess with or without packing have comparable outcomes. However, considering the cost and post-operative pain associated with packing, performing the procedure without packing of the abscess cavity may be more favourable. The findings of the better quality ongoing RCTs may provide stronger evidence in favour of packing or non-packing.

There is no consensus whether a colonoscopy should be recommended for patients under 50 years of age who present with both anal bleeding and benign anal diseases. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of colonoscopy to detect neoplastic lesions in this specific group of patients. A prospective study analyzing the results of colonoscopies performed in patients younger than 50 years of age who reported a rectal bleeding and also had a diagnosis of benign anal disease at first clinical visit. One hundred and eighty-seven consecutive patients were prospectively included in this study. In 35 patients (18.7%), adenomatous polyps were diagnosed. Thirty-seven percent of those lesions (13 cases) were further classified as either advanced adenomas or serrated adenomas. The prevalence of adenomas was 14.6% among patients under the age of 40 and 20% among those between 40 and 50 years of age. Thirty-one percent of the adenomas (11 cases) were located in the right colon, without any other concomitant lesion in the distal colon. In addition, an unsuspected case of sigmoid carcinoma was diagnosed. The performance of colonoscopy in young patients with benign anal diseases and hematochezia resulted in a high rate of detection of neoplastic lesions. The method might be considered as a valid strategy of investigation in this frequent clinical situation.

Levator ani syndrome (LAS) is a functional disorder that can be a challenge to treat. LAS that is refractory to medical management may be treated with electrogalvanic stimulation (EGS) or Botulinum toxin A (BTX) injection. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the outcomes associated with both EGS and BTX in patients with medically refectory LAS to determine if either demonstrate a long-term benefit or whether one treatment is better than the other. A retrospective study was performed on consecutive patients with LAS treated with BTX or EGS at our institute. Patients were identified from a prospectively maintained database. The study time frame was 6 years. One hundred and twenty patients [80 females, mean age 52 years (range 21–84, SD 15.8)] were treated for medically refractory LAS: 102 with BTX and 18 with EGS. With EGS, 28.6% of patients reported a complete response, 14.3% reported a partial response and 57.1% reported no response to treatment. With BTX, 35.5% of patients reported a complete response, 19.7% reported a partial response and 44.7% reported no response to treatment. There was no difference between BTX and EGS with regard to treatment response. Patients who had BTX were more likely to report a short-term benefit in treatment when compared to those patients who had EGS (p = 0.002). This difference between reported outcome to BTX and EGS treatments did not sustain in the long term (p = 0.2). Both BTX and EGS are to some extent effective at resolving symptoms of LAS. In the short term, BTX appears to be more effective. Neither treatment sustains its benefit in the long term.

Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) is a form of maternal trauma secondary to vaginal birth. Women with a history of OASI are deemed to be at a higher risk of recurrence. However, it is unclear if multiparity is associated with higher prevalence. The aim of the study was to test the following hypothesis: the prevalence of external anal sphincter (EAS) tears diagnosed on transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) is related to vaginal parity. A retrospective observational study on 1,273 women who attended a tertiary urogynecology service between January 2014 and December 2016. Patients had undergone a standardized interview, clinical examination and 4D TPUS. Tomographic ultrasound imaging was used to evaluate the EAS, blinded to all clinical data. Of 1,273 women, 1,143 (90%) were vaginally parous, with a mean vaginal parity of 2 (range 1–8). Mean age was 54 (range 17–89) years. Anal incontinence was reported in 186 women (15%) with an average St Mark’s incontinence score of 12 (range 1–23). EAS defects on ultrasound were identified in 148 (12%). On univariate analysis, there was no significant difference in the prevalence of EAS defects in vaginally primiparous and multiparous women (p = 0.460). There is no significant difference in the prevalence of EAS tears between vaginally primiparous and multiparous women. This argues against additional traumatic effects of subsequent vaginal births.

To study the relationship between symptoms of anal incontinence (AI) and the anatomy and functionality of the levator ani muscle in women with a history of obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI). This is a cohort study including patients with OASI from 2013 to 2016. Patients were assessed by a physical examination, endoanal ultrasound using Starck Scale, perineometry and 4D transperineal ultrasound. AI in all patients was measured with the Wexner scale. Correlation between variables has been analyzed in these patients. 72 patients were analyzed: 28 with a IIIA degree tear, 26 with a IIIB, 13 with a IIIC and 5 with a IV. 38 patients showed a residual anal sphincter (AS) defect on endoanal ultrasound with an average Starck score of 6.5 ± 3.7. 21 patients expressed AI, with an average Wexner score of 4.1 ± 2.4. In 27 (37.5%) patients, a levator ani avulsion was observed: 17 unilateral and 10 bilateral. Patients with a levator ani defect had weaker pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function. These differences were statistically significant with perineometry (p = 0.01 and p = 0.03) but not for the Oxford test (p = 0.08). Patients with a residual AS defect as well as an injury to the levator ani muscle expressed greater AI symptomatology than patients with residual sphincter injury who maintain the integrity of the levator ani: Wexner 4.9 0.9 vs 3.3 1 (p = 0.02). The PFM has correlation with AI symptom development in patients with a history of OASI. Therefore, we suggest a key role of anatomical and functional assessments of the levator ani muscle in these patients.

Functional anorectal pain syndromes are a neglected yet often disabling clinical entity resulting in significant economic and psychological burden to the patient. The aim of this review is to update the practicing gastroenterologist/coloproctologist on the diagnosis and management of these complicated disorders. The updated Rome foundation diagnostic criteria (Rome IV) for functional anorectal pain subgroups chronic proctalgia (levator ani syndrome and unspecified functional anorectal pain) and acute proctalgia (proctalgia fugax) on the basis of symptom duration and digital rectal examination findings. Chronic proctalgia is thought to be secondary to paradoxical pelvic floor contraction in many patients and biofeedback to improve the defecation effort has proven effective for over 90% in the short term. Unfortunately, management of proctalgia fugax remains challenging and treatment outcomes modest at best. A number of therapies to relax the pelvic floor may be employed to improve symptoms in functional anorectal pain syndromes; however, only biofeedback to improve defaecatory dynamics in patients with levator ani syndrome has proven effectiveness in a randomized setting. Further investigation of treatment approaches in proctalgia fugax is required.

Background Most individuals are infected with human papillomavirus (HPV) at least once in their lifetime. Infections with low-risk types can cause genital warts, whereas high-risk types can cause malignant tumors. The aim of this study was to determine the burden of anogenital diseases potentially related to HPV in young women based on German statutory health insurance claims data. Methods We conducted a retrospective claims data analysis using the “Institute for Applied Health Research Berlin” (InGef) Research Database, containing claims data from approximately 4 million individuals. In the period from 2012 to 2017 all women born in1989–1992, who were continuously insured between the age of 23–25 years were identified. Using ICD-10-GM codes (verified diagnosis in the outpatient sector or primary or secondary diagnosis in the inpatient sector) the administrative prevalence (95% confidence interval) of genital warts (A63.0), anogenital diseases grade I (K62.8, N87.0, N89.0, N90.0), grade II (N87.1, N89.1, N90.1) and grade III (D01.3, D06.-, D06.0, D07.1, D07.2, N87.2, N89.2, N90.2) was calculated (women with diagnosis divided by all women). Results From 2012 to 2017, a total of 15,358 (birth cohort 1989), 16,027 (birth cohort 1990), 14,748 (birth cohort 1991) and 14,862 (birth cohort 1992) women at the age of 23–25 were identified. A decrease of the administrative prevalence was observed in genital warts (1.30% (1.12–1.49) birth cohort 1989 vs. 0.94% (0.79–1.10) birth cohort 1992) and anogenital diseases grade III (1.09% (0.93–1.26) birth cohort 1989 vs. 0.71% (0.58–0.86) birth cohort 1992). In anogenital diseases grade III, this trend was especially observed for severe cervical dysplasia (N87.2) (0.91% (0.76–1.07) birth cohort 1989 vs. 0.60% (0.48–0.74) birth cohort 1992). In contrast, anogenital diseases grade I (1.41% (1.23–1.61) birth cohort 1989 vs. 1.31% (1.14–1.51) birth cohort 1992) and grade II (0.61% (0.49–0.75) birth cohort 1989 vs. 0.52% (0.42–0.65) birth cohort 1992) remained stable. Conclusions A decrease of the burden of anogenital disease potentially related to HPV was observed in the younger birth cohorts. This was observed especially for genital warts and anogenital diseases grade III. Further research to investigate this trend for the upcoming years in light of varying HPV vaccination coverage for newer birth cohorts is necessary.

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy has a few advantages such as less postoperative pain and faster recovery compared with conventional hemorrhoidectomy. There are two major devices used for stapled hemorrhoidopexy, PPH stapler (Ethicon EndoSurgery) and DST stapler (Covidien). This study was conducted to investigate the postoperative outcomes among patients with grade III and IV hemorrhoids who underwent hemorrhoidopexy with either of these two devices. A total of 242 consecutive patients underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy with either PPH stapler (110 patients) or DST stapler (132 patients) at a single center in 2017. We performed a retrospective case–control study to compare the short-term postoperative outcomes and the complications between these two groups. After matching the cases in terms of age, gender, and the grade of hemorrhoids, there were 100 patients in each group (PPH versus DST). There were no significant differences in the postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) score and analgesic usage. Among complications, the incidence of anorectal stricture was significantly higher in the DST group (p = 0.02). Evaluation of the mucosal specimen showed that the total surface area, the muscle/mucosa ratio and the surface area of the muscle were also significantly higher in the DST group (p = 0.03). Further analysis of the DST group demonstrated that patients with anorectal stricture after surgery are younger than patients without anorectal stricture, and higher muscle/mucosa ratio (p = 0.03) and a higher surface area of the muscle (p = 0.03) also measured in the surgical specimen. The two devices provide similar outcomes of postoperative recovery. Patients who underwent DST stapled hemorrhoidopexy had a higher incidence rate of stricture, larger area of muscle excision, and higher muscle/mucosa ratio in the surgical specimen. Further investigation is warranted for a better understanding of the correlation between muscle excision and anorectal stricture.

A broad spectrum of disease, from benign processes to life-threatening pathologies, can cause anal pain. MR imaging (MRI) has become increasingly widely used method over the past two decades for the evaluation of individuals with anorectal symptoms. Although imaging is rarely necessary to determine the etiology of the majority of cases, MRI is particularly useful as a noninvasive method of excluding severe neoplastic conditions. In this article, MRI findings of a number of pathologies such as anal and perianal neoplasms, hemorrhoidal disease, arteriovenous malformation of the perianal region, and anal sphincter lesions (defects, scarring, atrophy) which may lead to fecal incontinence are presented.

Biofeedback therapy (BFT) is effective for managing pelvic floor disorders (i.e., defecatory disorders and fecal incontinence). However, even in controlled clinical trials, only approximately 60% of patients with defecatory disorders experienced long-term improvement. The review serves to update practitioners on recent advances and to identify practical obstacles to providing biofeedback therapy. The efficacy and safety of biofeedback therapy have been evaluated in defecatory disorders, fecal incontinence, and levator ani syndrome. Recent studies looked at outcomes in specific patient sub-populations and predictors of a response to biofeedback therapy. Biofeedback therapy is effective for managing defecatory disorders, fecal incontinence, and levator ani syndrome. Patients who have a lower bowel satisfaction score and use digital maneuvers fare better. Biofeedback therapy is recommended for patients with fecal incontinence who do not respond to conservative management. A subset of patients with levator ani syndrome who have dyssynergic defecation are more likely to respond to biofeedback therapy.

This article provides a current overview on clinical anatomy, pathophysiology, workup and surgical management of anorectal abscesses. Based on the three-dimensional nature of anorectal abscesses, a novel treatment-based classification is proposed. It examines the basis of a philosophic shift from simple drainage to concomitant definitive treatment of abscesses and their underlying primary fistulous trajectories. Complications are discussed specifically in this context.

Complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice for tailgut cysts, because of their malignant potential and tendency to regrow if incompletely resected. We report our experience of treating patients with tailgut cysts, and discuss diagnostics, surgical approaches, and follow-up. We performed extended distal rectal segmental resection of the tailgut cyst, with rectoanal anastomosis. We report the clinical, radiological, pathological, and surgical findings, describe the procedures performed, and summarize follow-up data. Two patients underwent en-bloc resection of a tailgut cyst, the adjacent part of the levator muscle, and the distal rectal segment, followed by an end-to-end rectoanal anastomosis. There was no evidence of anastomotic leakage postoperatively. At the time of writing, our patients were relapse-free with no, or non-limiting, symptoms of anal incontinence, respectively. This surgical approach appears to have a low complication rate and good recovery outcomes. Moreover, as the sphincter is preserved, so is the postoperative anorectal function. This approach could result in a low recurrence rate.

Objectives The objective of this study was to estimate the risk of recurrent obstetric anal sphincter injury (rOASI) in women who have suffered anal sphincter injury in their previous pregnancy and analyse risk factors for recurrence through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Data sources A review was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Searches were made in Ovid MEDLINE (1996 to May 2015), PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar, including bibliographies and conference proceedings. Methods of study selection Observational studies (cohort/case–control) evaluating rOASI and risk factors were selected by two reviewers who also analysed methodological quality of those studies. Pooled odds ratios (OR) for rOASI and individual risk factors were calculated using RevMan 5.3. Tabulation, integration and results From the eight studies assessed, overall risk of rOASI was 6.3 % compared with a 5.7 % risk of OASI in the first pregnancy. The risk in parous women with no previous OASI was 1.5 %. Factors that increased the risk in a future pregnancy were instrumental delivery with forceps [OR 3.12, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 2.42–4.01) or ventouse (OR 2.44, 95 % CI 1.83–3.25), previous fourth-degree tear (OR 1.7, 95 % CI 1.24–2.36) and birth weight ≥4 kg (OR 2.29, 95 % CI 2.06–2.54). Maternal age ≥35 years marginally increased the risk (OR 1.16, 95 % CI 1–1.35). Conclusion The overall rate of rOASI and associated risk factors for recurrence are similar to the rate and risk factors of primary OASI. Antenatal decisions could be based on assessment of foetal weight and intrapartum decisions based upon the requirement for an instrumental delivery. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00192-015-2893-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

For medically refractory or obstructive Crohn’s disease (CD), ostomy surgery remains an important therapeutic option. Outcomes and complications of this approach have not been well described in the era of biological therapies. Our study aims to characterize CD patients undergoing ostomy creation and assess outcome predictors. We performed a retrospective chart review of CD patients who underwent ostomy creation in our center from 2011 to 2014. Data collected include patient demographics, detailed disease- and surgery-related variables, and clinical outcomes after 26 weeks of follow-up. Of the 112 patients, 54 % were female, the median age was 39 years (range 19–78), the median disease duration was 13 years (range 0–50), 54 % had ileo-colonic disease, 55 % had stricturing phenotype, and 59 % had perianal disease. Sixty-two percent received end ostomies, and 38 % received loop ostomies. The leading indications for surgery were stricturing, fistulizing, and perianal disease (35 %). Forty-three (38 %) patients had 76 major complications, including dehydration (22 cases), intra-abdominal infection (16), and obstruction (14). Increased major postoperative complications correlated with penetrating disease (p = 0.02, odds ratio [OR] = 5.52, 95 % confidence interval [CI] = 1.25–24.42), the use of narcotics before surgery (p = 0.04, OR = 2.54, 95 % CI = 1.02–6.34), and loop ostomies (p = 0.004, OR = 4.2, 95 % CI = 1.57–11.23). Penetrating phenotype, the use of narcotics before surgery, and loop ostomies are associated with major complications in CD patients undergoing ostomy creation. These findings may influence risk management of CD patients needing ostomies.

Perianal disease is a potentially significant source of morbidity for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We sought to identify the impact of perianal disease on IBD outcomes in children, adolescents, and young adults. We studied 12,465 inpatient admissions for patients ≤20 years old with IBD in 2009 using the Kids’ Inpatient Database (KID). Patients were stratified by their principal diagnosis of ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn’s disease (CD). Perianal disease (perianal abscess, anal fissure, or anal fistula), complex fistulas (rectourethral, rectovaginal, or enterovesical), and growth failure were defined by ICD-9 codes. Logistic regression was performed adjusting for CD or UC, gender, age, need for surgical intervention, fistulas, or growth failure. Of the 511 (4.1 %) patients with perianal disease, 480 had CD (94 %, p

Background Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare systemic disease characterized by the abnormal overproduction of histiocytes that tend to infiltrate single or multiple organ systems leading to significant tissue damage. It mainly affects – by order of decreasing frequency – the bone, the skin, the lymph nodes, the liver, and lungs. Gastrointestinal tract involvement is extremely rare in adults. Case presentation We describe the case of a 32-year-old Middle Eastern man with Langerhans cell histiocytosis involving his lungs and the colorectoanal part of his gastrointestinal tract, with complete resolution of gastrointestinal tract lesions following a non-standardized chemotherapy regimen. Conclusions Gastrointestinal tract lesions are a rare manifestation of Langerhans cell histiocytosis, especially when associated with extraintestinal involvement, such as the lungs. Chemotherapy protocols have not been well established for the treatment of the disease. The clinical impact of the effective chemotherapy regimen used to treat this uncommon presentation of Langerhans cell histiocytosis will be viewed in this case report. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13256-017-1428-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The aim of this study is to describe the diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance imaging in the management of supralevator abscess, regarding its origin, location, drainage route, subsequent treatment of the fistula, and long-term results. A retrospective case series including thirteen consecutive patients with cryptoglandular supralevator abscess treated between 2001 and 2011 at a colorectal unit of a tertiary referral center. A magnetic resonance imaging was performed in all patients before surgical drainage, and its usefulness in assessing supralevator abscess origin was analyzed. Short- and long-term results after drainage were also evaluated. The final diagnosis of supralevator abscess and the location described in the magnetic resonance were confirmed intraoperatively in all patients. An ischiorectal origin was identified in nine patients, and perineal translevator drainage was performed placing a mushroom catheter through the ischiorectal or the postanal space. Four patients underwent secondary treatment of anal fistula: two rectal advancement flap and two non-cutting seton. In the other four patients, an intersphincteric origin was identified and transanal surgical drainage was performed placing a long-term mushroom catheter. Several weeks later, transanal unroofing of the residual cavity was performed and the fistula lay open to the anorectal lumen. In the long-term follow-up (median 61 months), only patients with supralevator abscess of ischiorectal origin in whom fistula was not subsequently treated presented a recurrence of the anal sepsis. Magnetic resonance imaging seems essential to clarify the location of supralevator abscess, its origin, and choice of the right drainage route. Subsequent treatment of the fistula is necessary to avoid recurrence.

Traditional management of a perianal abscess involves incision and drainage followed by packing of the cavity until healing by secondary intention is complete. The evidence supporting this is lacking however, and regular postoperative packing is time-consuming, painful and costly. This pilot study aimed to assess whether healing could be achieved safely without packing and to obtain preliminary results to enable sample size calculation in order to facilitate the implementation of a large multicentre randomised controlled trial. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01853267. Fourteen patients with perianal abscesses were randomised to packing or non-packing of the abscess cavity postoperatively. Outcome measures were time to healing, abscess recurrence, fistula formation and postoperative pain. Healing in the non-packing group was faster compared to the packing group: mean 26.8 days (95 % confidence interval 22.7 to 30.7) vs 19.5 days (13.6 to 25.4); P = 0.047. There were no differences in recurrence rates between the groups (37.5 % packing group vs 33.3 % non-packing group; P = 0.580) at a median follow-up of 90.0 weeks (interquartile range (IQR) 26.0). In patients presenting with recurrence, one fistula was found in the packing group with no fistulas in the non-packing group. The non-packing group reported less pain 2 weeks postoperatively: median (IQR) 2.00 (3.00) vs 0.00 (1.00); (P = 0.030). Within the limitations of a small sample population, the results of this pilot study suggest that not packing the perianal abscess cavity after incision and drainage is safe. Our results show not packing confers less pain with a faster healing time compared with the conventional packing method, and this is a novel finding. These results need to be corroborated in the setting of a larger multicentre randomised controlled trial.

The prevalence of idiopathic vulvodynia and proctodynia is high. Pain management with anti-depressants and anti-epileptics may induce undesirable side effects. Therefore, topical baclofen cream and palmitoylethanolamide might be new therapeutic options.A 33-year-old woman with intractable chronic vulvar and anal pain had to abstain from sexual intercourse and could neither cycle nor sit for more than 5 min. The patient did not respond to standard treatments. We prescribed a combination of topical baclofen 5 % and palmitoylethanolamide 400 mg, three times daily. After 3 months her symptoms decreased more than 50 % and sexual intercourse was possible again without pain.Topical baclofen and palmitoylethanolamide can be a viable treatment option in chronic vulvodynia and proctodynia.

Transperineal US has increased in use in the last decade. It is helpful in the evaluation of distal genitourinary structures, the rectum and overlying soft tissues. When used in conjunction with transabdominal US, transperineal US can further delineate anatomy and assess abnormalities that affect the lower pelvis. This paper describes optimal technique and common indications for transperineal US in children with examples of congenital and acquired lesions in pediatric patients.

Background Organic or functional anal canal stenoses are uncommon conditions that occur in the majority of cases as a consequence of anal diseases. A proper assessment is fundamental for decision making; however, proctological examination and endoanal ultrasound are often unfeasible or very difficult to perform even under local or general anesthesia. We therefore began to use 3D transperineal ultrasound to assess patients. The aim of this study was to compare the results of evacuation proctography and 3D transperineal ultrasound in patients with severe anal canal stenosis. Methods Four consecutive patients with high-grade anal canal stenosis were evaluated using both proctography and 3D transperineal ultrasound with a micro-convex transducer between March and June 2011. Results In all cases, 3D transperineal ultrasound provided detailed information on the length and level of stenosis and on the integrity of the anal sphincters. Conclusions Our preliminary experience suggests that 3D transperineal ultrasound makes it possible to plan optimal surgical treatment.

Most perianal abscesses originate from infected anal glands at the base of the anal crypts. Most abscesses below are usually drained through perianal incision and can be treated successfully. However, when perianal abscesses extend to the high intrapelvic cavity, it may be inadequate treatment through a single route incision through a perianal approach. The aim of this technical note is to show that combined anterior ilioinguinal and perianal incisions may provide optimal surgical field and multiple drainages. Here, we report a 56-year-old male patient with perianal-originating parapsoas abscesses. Residual abscess still remained after initial perianal incision and drainage after 1-month treatment. We presented combined anterior ilioinguinal and perianal incision technique methods for proper drainage in this complicated case. No recurrent or residual abscess remained after 2 weeks of operation. So, combined anterior ilioinguinal incision is feasible for high-located perianal abscess.

"Functional" imaging of anorectal and pelvic floor dysfunction has assumed an important role in the diagnosis and management of these disorders. Although defecography has been widely practiced for decades to evaluate the dynamics of rectal emptying, debate concerning its clinical relevance, how it should be done and interpreted continues. Due to the recognition of the association of defecatory disorders with pelvic organ prolapse in women, the need to evaluate the pelvic floor as a unit has arisen. To meet this need, defecography has been extended to include not only evaluation of defecation disorders but also the rest of the pelvic floor by opacifying the small bowel, vagina, and the urinary bladder. The term "dynamic cystocolpoproctography" (DCP) has been appropriately applied to this examination. Rectal emptying performed with DCP provides the maximum stress to the pelvic floor resulting in complete levator ani relaxation. In addition to diagnosing defecatory disorders, this method of examination demonstrates maximum pelvic organ descent and provides organ-specific quantification of organ prolapse, information that is only inferred by means of physical examination. It has been found to be of clinical value in patients with defecation disorders and the diagnosis of associated prolapse in other compartments that are frequently unrecognized by history taking and the limitations of physical examination. Pelvic floor anatomy is complex and DCP does not show the anatomical details pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides. Technical advances allowing acquisition of dynamic rapid MRI sequences has been applied to pelvic floor imaging. Early reports have shown that pelvic MRI may be a useful tool in pre-operative planning of these disorders and may lead to a change in surgical therapy. Predictions of hypothetical increase cancer incidence and deaths in patients exposed to radiation, the emergence of pelvic floor MRI in addition to questions relating to the clinical significance of DCP findings have added to these controversies. This review analyses the pros and cons between DCP and dynamic pelvic floor MRI, addresses imaging and interpretive controversies, and their relevance to clinical management.

A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the prevalence, types, and risk factors associated with anal HPV infection among HIV-infected men in outpatient clinics at an AIDS designated hospital in Taiwan. Anal swabs were collect and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) was used to analyze the types of anal HPV infection. HPV DNA was detected in 74.2% of the 198 participants, including high-risk types (40.4%), low-risk types (18.2%) and multiple-types (6%). The most common types were HPV 16 (13.1%), 6 (10.4%), 11 (7.1%) and 18 (6.1%). The significant risk factor for being infected with any type or a high-risk type of HPV was having sexual partners (>3) in the preceding 6 months. Low-risk type of anal HPV infection was associated with a history of anal lesions. Our findings support the need for regular follow-up of all HIV/HPV coinfected patients and their partners to allow early detection of anal intraepithelial neoplasia.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of anorectal manometry (AM) in patients affected by obstructed defecation (OD). Between January 2007 and December 2010, 379 patients (287 women and 92 men) affected by OD were evaluated. After a preliminary clinical evaluation, defecography and AM were performed. The results were compared with those from 20 healthy control subjects. Overall anal resting pressure was not significantly different between patients and controls. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) data were significantly lower when compared with those of controls (P

Specific risk behaviors related to different sexually transmitted infections have not been widely evaluated among men who have sex with men in China. In the present study, a total of 302 MSM were recruited from Beijing with a prevalence of HIV, syphilis, and anal HPV infection as 9.9, 19.2 and 71.4%, respectively. Lower education level was observed to be related to higher infection rate of HIV and syphilis. "Ever found sexual partners in gay venues" was significantly associated with HIV infection as well. "Taking anilinction as regular sexual behavior" was observed to be a significant predictor for anal HPV infection.

The aim of this paper was to determine the incidence of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) and cancer of lower genital tract in patients with anogenital warts and their treatment. Between 1 September 1988 and 30 June 1994, 221 consecutive women with anogenital warts were prospectively examined in the colposcopy outpatient clinic. In 2004, the same group of patients was re-examined. There were abnormal cytological findings in 111 (50.2%) patients; 31 patients (14.0%) had HSIL, and 6 of them (2.7%) had cancer. There were abnormal colposcopic findings in 152 (68.8%) women; 78 women (35.3%) had abnormal histological findings. In the histological findings, HSIL was found in 41 (18.5%) women and cancer in 6 (2.7%). In spite of the fact that anogenital warts are caused by HPV types of low oncogenic risk (6/11), there is an increased incidence of HSIL and cancer in these women. Therefore, women with anogenital warts belong to an increased risk group regarding the cancer of lower genital tract, especially if they are associated with HPV types of a high oncogenic risk.

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a newly identified recombinant agent that promotes wound healing through an augmented neovascularization. This study examined the effect of bFGF in the treatment of perianal abscesses. Nine consecutive males with an average age of 5.1 months (1–9 months) who presented with perianal abscess in the past 2 years were treated with bFGF (Transfermin, Kaken Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan). Two or three sprays of bFGF were applied to the perianal abscess two times a day. All nine patients responded well to the bFGF treatment. Pus discharge and local swelling around the fistula subsided within a mean of 7.3 ± 1.9 days (1 SD) after the initiation of treatment. One case showed a mild relapse 7 months after treatment and the other developed a new lesion 1 month after treatment. However, these lesions also similarly disappeared after a second treatment with bFGF without a recurrence in the follow-up examinations at 11 and 10 months, respectively. The remaining seven cases have all done well without any recurrence at a mean follow-up period of 14.1 ± 3.2 months. These results clearly indicate the usefulness of the bFGF spray as a new treatment strategy for the management of perianal abscesses.

Proctalgia fugax (PF) is a benign anorectal condition which has been described in the literature since the nineteenth century commonly presenting to general surgeons. There is little high level evidence on the subject and its therapeutic modalities. We aimed through this systematic literature review to outline the definition and diagnostic criteria of this condition, the aetiology and differential diagnoses and describe the different treatment modalities that have been attempted and their success. A literature search of Google Scholar™ and Medline using Pubmed as the search engine was used to identify all studies directly related to the definition, aetiology and treatment options for this condition (latest at 12 August 2008) was performed. The search produced 61 references with three others obtained from the references of these papers. The prevalence of PF in the general population ranges from 4% to 18%. The diagnosis is based on the presence of characteristic symptoms as defined by Rome III guidelines and physical examination. The mainstay of treatment is reassurance and careful counselling with evidence in the literature for warm baths, topical treatment with glyceryl trinitrate or diltiazem and salbutamol inhalation. In persistent cases, local anaesthetic blocks, clonidine or Botox injections can be considered after clarification of risk and benefit. Based on this we suggest that diagnosis should be made through exclusion of common organic causes such as haemorrhoids, anal fissure or anorectal carcinoma and on the fulfilment of Rome III criteria. The main treatment for this benign condition remains reassurance and topical treatment.

Objectives The objective of this study was to compare the results of partial division of puborectalis (PDPR) versus local botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injection in treating patients with anismus. Patients and methods This prospective randomized study included 30 male patients suffering from anismus. Diagnosis was made by clinical examination, barium enema, colonoscopy, colonic transit time, anorectal manometry, balloon expulsion test, defecography, and electromyography. Patients were randomized into: group I which included 15 patients who were injected with BTX-A and group II which included 15 patients who underwent bilateral PDPR. Follow-up was conducted for about 1 year. Improvement was considered when patients returned to their normal habits. Results BTX-A injection achieved initial success in 13 patients (86.7%). However, long-term success persisted only in six patients (40%). This was in contrast to PDPR which achieved initial success in all patients (100%) with a long-term success in ten patients (66.6%). Recurrence was observed in seven patients (53.8%) and five patients (33.4%) following BTX-A injection and PDPR, respectively. Minor degrees of incontinence were confronted in two patients (13.3%) following PDPR. Conclusion BTX-A injection seems to be successful for temporary treatment of anismus.

The treatment of pelvic floor disorders using biofeedback, behavioral therapies, and other applied psychophysiological treatments has been well documented as effective. Practitioners must take due care to ensure that they practice within the boundaries of what is common practice for their discipline and within the scope of practice allowed by their professional license as outlined by the appropriate state licensing law(s), the ethical principles and practice guidelines and standards for their discipline, and those of the Association of Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback if using a biofeedback assessment or treatment. Being competent to provide a particular treatment does not necessarily make it legal and/or ethical. This paper provides a set of recommended practice guidelines for use in the assessment and treatment of pelvic floor disorders. Please note that they have not at this time been endorsed as an official position of the Association of Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback or any other professional organization.

A retrospective review of 28 patients who had “house flap” anoplasty was carried out to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of the procedure. House flap anoplasty was performed at Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical School, General Surgery Department, in 28 patients over 4 years. Indications were chronic anal fissure, anal stenosis, high transsphincteric fistula, low rectovaginal fistula, anal neoplasia, and obstetric third-degree perineal tear and incontinence. After rectangular excision of the anal or perianal lesion, the “walls” and “roof” of the house flap were incised to the depth of ischiorectal fat. The “base” of this house-shaped flap was then fixed to the top of the excised area. Median postoperative hospital stay was 4.86 (range = 2–12) days. Postoperative complications included three patients with minimal wound dehiscence and one with rectovaginal fistula recurrence. At a median follow-up of 26.4 (range = 1–46) months, excluding the patient with recurrence, all patients were satisfied with house flap anoplasty. House advancement flap anoplasty is a relatively simple procedure, combining the beneficial features of rectangular flaps and V-Y plasties. It can be used in nearly all types of anoderm deficiencies with a high rate of success and patient satisfaction.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of 11 surgically resected pelvic tailgut cysts were analyzed with reference to histopathologic and clinical data. Homogeneity, size, location, signal intensity, appearance and presence of septa and/or nodules and/or peripheral rim and involvement of surrounding structures were studied. Histological examination demonstrated 11 tailgut cysts (TGC), including one infected TGC and one TGC with a component of adenocarcinoma. Lesions (3-8 cm in diameter) were exclusively or partly retrorectal in all cases but one, with an extension down the anal canal in five cases. Lesions were multicystic in all patients but one. On T1-weighted MR images, all cystic lesions contained at least one hyperintense cyst. The peripheral rim of the cystic lesion was regular and non or moderately enhancing in all cases but the two complicated TGC. Nodular peripheral rim and irregular septa were seen in the degenerated TGC. Marked enhancement of the peripheral structures was noted in the two complicated TGC. Pelvic MRI is a valuable tool in the preoperative evaluation of TGC.

A study was carried out to identify (1) incidence of anal incontinence symptoms, (2) incidence and size of both external anal sphincter (EAS) and internal anal sphincter (IAS) defects, and (3) relationship between anal incontinence symptoms and IAS or EAS defect size after repair of an obstetric anal sphincter laceration. Forty-seven vaginally primiparous women underwent obstetric anal sphincter laceration repair. At 8-12 weeks postpartum, anal incontinence symptoms were assessed, and endoanal ultrasound was performed. At 1-2 years postpartum, symptoms were reassesseds. The incidence of anal incontinence symptoms at 8-12 weeks was 43%. The incidence of IAS and EAS defects were 32% and 77%, respectively. IAS defectsor = 45 degrees were predictive of symptoms (p = 0.02). After 18 months mean follow-up, 11% reported chronic symptoms. After anal sphincter laceration repair, anal incontinence symptoms occur in 43% of women and remain chronic in 11%. Anal incontinence symptoms are associated with increasing IAS defect size.

Anal cancer is a rare disease in the general population, but the incidence of anal cancer is higher in certain at-risk groups, such as men who have sex with men (MSM), and immunosuppressed individuals, including those with HIV infection. Among HIV-positive MSM, the incidence of anal cancer may be as high as 10 times greater than current rates of cervical cancer in the general population of women. Anal cancer is associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and may be preceded by high-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia (HGAIN). HGAIN and anal HPV infection are both highly prevalent in groups at risk for anal cancer. Current issues include determining the effect of antiretroviral therapy on the natural history of HGAIN and the incidence of anal cancer, optimizing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to HGAIN, and determining the potential for prophylactic HPV vaccines to prevent anal HPV infection and anal cancer in at-risk groups.

Internal anal sphincter (IAS) dysfunction is a cause of refractory constipation in children. The goal of this study was to determine whether intrasphincteric injection of botulinum toxin is effective in the treatment of constipation in pediatric patients with IAS dysfunction. A retrospective review was performed of 24 pediatric patients with intractable constipation. All patients had abnormal anorectal manometry, with either elevated IAS resting pressure (> or =100 mm Hg) or an absent or diminished rectoanal inhibitory reflex. Patients with Hirschsprung's disease were excluded. All patients underwent botox injection into the IAS and were followed for a minimum of 6 months. Of 24 patients, 22 experienced significant improvement in their constipation lasting greater than 2 weeks. The duration of effect was variable, with 12 patients demonstrating benefit lasting at least 6 months. Transient postoperative incontinence occurred in five patients. Intrasphincteric injection of botox is a safe and effective treatment for intractable constipation in children with IAS dysfunction.

The authors conducted a review of the available English literature to evaluate the advantages of three-dimensional ultrasound for assessing anorectal pathology, to provide a state-of-the-art approach, and to compare this technique with conventional endoluminal ultrasound and other imaging methods.All studies describing results obtained with three-dimensional ultrasound in the evaluation of anorectal pathologies, both alone and compared with other techniques, were selected.Since 1996, 32 articles have been published. In tumor staging, specific data derived by three-dimensional reconstruction for the assessment of T invasion and nodal involvement were more accurate than endoluminal ultrasound and computed tomography. For evaluating perianal sepsis, the detection of secondary fistula tracts and fluid collections and the location of internal openings were superior to endoanal magnetic resonance imaging. In the evaluation of anal incontinence, the results for sphincter defects were similar to those obtained with endoanal magnetic resonance imaging.Analysis of the literature confirmed that three-dimensional ultrasound is a valuable technique for assessing anorectal disorders, facilitating the interpretation of the images obtained, and providing additional data that in many cases have changed the operative approach.

This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic precision of endoanal magnetic resonance imaging in identifying anal sphincter injury and/or atrophy when compared with either endoanal ultrasound or surgical diagnosis. Quantitative meta-analysis was performed on nine studies, comparing endoanal MRI with endoanal ultrasound or surgical diagnosis in 157 patients. Sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio were calculated for each study. Summary receiver operating characteristic curves (SROC) and subgroup analysis were undertaken. The overall sensitivity and specificity of endoanal MRI for external sphincter injury was 0.78 (95%CI: 0.66–0.84) and 0.66 (95%CI: 0.51–0.79), respectively. For internal sphincter injury detection, this was 0.63 (95%CI: 0.50–0.74) and 0.71 (95%CI: 0.60–0.81), respectively. For detection of atrophy, this was 0.86 (95%CI: 0.71–0.95) and 0.82 (95%CI: 0.65–0.93), respectively. The area under the SROC curve and diagnostic odds ratio were 0.84 (SE = 0.07) and 6.14 (95%CI: 2.17–17.4) for external sphincter injury, 0.79 (SE = 0.07) and 4.60 (95%CI: 1.75–12.15) for internal sphincter injury, and 0.92 (SE = 0.08) and 21.49 (95%CI: 2.87–160.64) for sphincter atrophy. Endoanal MRI was sensitive and specific for the detection of external sphincter injury and especially sphincter atrophy. It may be useful as an alternative to endoanal ultrasound in patients presenting with fecal incontinence, although further clinical studies are needed to identify its best application in clinical practice.

Funnel anus (FA) is a rare and distinct type of anorectal malformation characterized by a skin-lined deep anal funnel, missing transitional epithelium and stenosis secondary to fibrotic internal sphincter. We aimed to characterize associated anomalies, surgical management and outcome of children with FA. The hospital records of 11 consecutive children (7 boys) treated for FA between 1992 and 2006 were screened. The collected data included the type of anorectal malformation, surgical management, associated anomalies, results of diagnostic investigations and outcome. Only one patient was free of any associated malformation. Six patients had a complete Currarino syndrome. Seven patients had a hemisacrum (scimitar) and tethered cord was present in two cases. Six patients underwent excision of a benign presacral teratoma. Anal stenosis associated with FA was managed by serial dilatations. Subsequent resection of the megarectosigmoid secondary to refractory constipation was performed on five occasions. Three patients underwent coloanal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease (HD). The level of aganglionosis was at the rectosigmoid junction in two cases and low in the rectum in one. One additional patient had hypoganglionosis. Of the three patients with HD two also had Down's syndrome. After median follow-up of 6.5 (0.3-13.5) years four patients have normal bowel function and four suffer from soiling. Two patients with HD and Down's syndrome and one patient with an undefined syndrome are fecally incontinent. Associated anomalies are common and diverse in children with FA. Pelvic MRI, sacral radiography, evaluation of the urinary tract and rectal biopsies are recommended as routine investigations in cases of FA. Surgical care of these patients is demanding and should be confined to dedicated centers.

Tethered spinal cord (TC) is an anomaly frequently recognized in association with anorectal malformations (ARM). However, the influence of TC on bowel function in children with ARM remains unknown. Furthermore, there are few studies that have assessed anorectal function in children with ARM and TC. The aim of this study was to evaluate anorectal function in ARM patients with TC using clinical assessment and anorectal manometry. Among 258 patients with ARM, this retrospective investigation included 35 patients who underwent spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after surgery for ARM. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of TC, and bowel function was assessed by Kelly's clinical score and anorectal manometry. Tethered cord was found in nine of the 35 patients (26%) with ARM. Of the ARM patients, TC was noted in four of 11 (36%) with high type anomalies, one of 8 (13%) with intermediate type anomalies, two of 14 (14%) with low type anomalies, and two of two patients (100%) with cloacal anomalies. Kelly's clinical score did not significantly differ between the two groups. However, two of the nine patients with TC had poor bowel function (Kelly's score; 2-0 points). On the contrary, patients without TC did not have poor bowel function. Anorectal manometry did not show a significant difference between patients with and without TC. However, the two patients with TC who had poor bowel function by Kelly's score had low anal resting pressure, which was essential for achieving fecal continence. In conclusion, the present study showed that tethered cord was more frequently found in patients with more severe anorectal anomalies. Patients with TC were more likely to have poor bowel function, but this did not reach statistical significance.

We report two cases of perianal endometriosis in which we were greatly assisted by endoanal ultrasonography. Patient 1 was a 43-year-old woman with perianal pain. Endosonography showed a hypoechoic mass in the anterior perianal region without involvement of the anal sphincter. Local excision was performed under spinal anesthesia without damage to the anal sphincter. Patient 2 was a 30-year-old woman with perianal pain coinciding with her menstrual period. Endosonography showed a heterogeneous mass containing cystic anechoic areas in the right anterior perianal region and involving the external anal sphincter. Wide excision, including the episiotomy scar and part of the external anal sphincter, and primary sphincteroplasty were performed under spinal anesthesia. According to our experience, preoperative endosonography is a reliable technique for visualizing perianal endometriosis and for diagnosing anal sphincter involvement. Operative management should be determined on the basis of preoperative and intraoperative ultrasonographic assessment.

Anatomic anal sphincter defects can involve the internal anal sphincter (IAS), the external anal sphincter (EAS), or both muscles. Surgical repair of anteriorly located EAS defects consists of overlapping suture of the EAS or EAS imbrication; IAS imbrication can be added regardless of whether there is IAS injury. The aim of this study was to assess the functional outcome of anal sphincter repair in patients intraoperatively diagnosed with combined EAS/IAS defects compared to patients with isolated EAS defects. The medical records of patients who underwent anal sphincter repair between 1988 and 2000 and had follow-up of at least 3 months were retrospectively assessed. Fecal incontinence was assessed using the Cleveland Clinic Florida incontinence score wherein 0 equals perfect continence and 20 is associated with complete incontinence. Postoperative scores of 0–10 were interpreted as success whereas scores of 11–20 indicated failure. A total of 131 women were included in this study, including 38 with combined EAS/IAS defects (Group I) and 93 with isolated EAS defects (Group II). Thirty-three patients (87%) in Group I had imbrication of a deficient IAS, compared to 83 patients (89%) in Group II. All patients had either overlapping EAS repair (n=121) or EAS imbrication (n=10). Mean follow-up was 30.9 months (range, 3–131 months). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups relative to age (48.3 vs. 53.0 years; p=0.14), preoperative incontinence score (16.1 vs. 16.7; p=0.38), extent of pudendal nerve terminal motor latency pathology (left, 11.1% vs. 8%; p=0.58; right, 8.6% vs. 15.1%; p=0.84), extent of pathology at electromyography (54.8% vs. 60.1%; p=0.43), and length of follow-up (26.9 vs. 32.5 months; p=0.31). The success rates of sphincter repair were 68.4% for Group I versus 55.9% for Group II (p=NS). Both groups were well matched for incidence of IAS imbrication as well as age, follow-up interval, and physiologic parameters. The success rates of anal sphincter repair were not statistically significant between the two groups. A pre-existing IAS defect does not preclude successful sphincteroplasty as compared to repair of an isolated EAS defect. Thus, patients with combined anal sphincter defects should not be considered as poor candidates for sphincter repair.

Probably because of the low frequency, perianal abscess (PA) and fistula-in-ano (FIA) in children older than 2 years have not been investigated except in those with a predisposing condition such as Crohn’s disease. This study aims to summarize our experience about the characteristics and treatment of PA and FIA in healthy children. The charts of all children older than 24 months of age treated for PA and/or FIA from 1990 to 2003 were reviewed. We found 40 patients, 37 of them boys (92.5%), ranging from 2 to 14 years of age (average: 7.19 years). At the first examination, the diagnosis was PA in 36 patients (mean age: 6.8 years; range: 2.3–13 years), and FIA in 4 patients (mean age: 10.8 years; range: 6–14 years). The primary local treatment of PA was drainage (needle aspiration in 26 patients, and incision and drainage in 4 patients) and local care in 6 patients. All patients received antibiotics. Overall, 29 children (80.6%) had primary cure of the abscess. Evolution included recurrent abscess in 3 patients (8.3%) and FIA in 4 patients (11.1%). Crohn’s disease was diagnosed in only one boy with an abscess of long duration. No patient developed a new PA in another location or a recurrent FIA. Four male patients aged 6 to 14 years (range: 7.1 years) had a FIA of long duration. One patient underwent a fistulectomy. Crohn’s disease was found in three other children and treated conservatively. Drainage of PA by needle aspiration associated with antibiotics is effective in children older than 2 years of age with a low rate of evolution toward FIA. Associated pathology must be ruled out in children with FIA.

We present the case of a 3.5-year-old boy with sudden anal blood loss at school. Sexual abuse was suspected, and, apart from anal fissures seen on sigmoidoscopy, no other clinical signs of any sort of disorder were present. As no medical explanation for the blood loss could be given, penetrating anal trauma was suggested. During follow-up consultations, there were complaints of occasional blood loss. Platelet aggregation tests and electron microscopy finally helped diagnose a delta-storage pool disease which is a rare haemostatic disorder involving the dense granules of the platelets. Although exclusion of well-known blood diseases through routine laboratory testing is a common practice in children with sudden blood loss, this case illustrates the value of more specialised investigation both from a diagnostic and forensic point of view.