Can a perianal abscess heal by itself without rupturing?

Written by Chen Tian Jing
Colorectal Surgery
Updated on March 11, 2025
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Perianal abscesses that have not ruptured generally involve two scenarios. First, the application of topical or oral antibiotics may eliminate the local abscess, but some infection foci and swelling may persist, with a possibility of recurrence later. The second scenario occurs when the abscess does not rupture, but the pus chamber further expands, leading to an increase in the area of infection and thus worsening systemic infection symptoms. Once a perianal abscess is detected, it is necessary to treat it promptly. If an early-stage typical pus chamber has not formed, antibiotics can be used for symptomatic treatment to reduce local inflammation. If a clear pus chamber has formed and is accompanied by pus, it is advisable to promptly perform an incision and drainage of the abscess, followed by a definitive surgical debridement.

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Written by Chen Tian Jing
Colorectal Surgery
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What should I do if there is pus draining from a perianal abscess?

When a perianal abscess occurs, there is typically pus or an enclosed abscess under the skin. If the perianal abscess ruptures and drains pus, it may have developed into an anal fistula. Once a perianal abscess forms an anal fistula, surgical treatment should be carried out as soon as possible. The surgical methods for treating perianal abscesses and anal fistulas mainly include incision drainage debridement surgery and incision with seton placement. After the surgery, due to substantial secretion from the local wound, it is essential to disinfect and change dressings regularly and to monitor the wound daily. It is crucial to prevent excessive granulation or pseudohealing at the local site, which could encapsulate the infection and prevent complete recovery, potentially leading to recurrence in the future.

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Written by Chen Tian Jing
Colorectal Surgery
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Why is a perianal abscess so painful?

During the acute phase of a perianal abscess, the intense pain is mainly due to the formation of an abscess and pus pockets in the subcutaneous area around the anus. The pus within these cavities cannot rupture, causing localized skin nerves to experience pecking-like or jumping pain. The pain from a perianal abscess is generally unbearable for patients, necessitating prompt surgical treatment. The surgical approach for a perianal abscess primarily involves incision and drainage, followed by debridement of the abscess cavity. It is important to note that postoperative disinfection and dressing changes of the local wound are crucial to prevent false healing of the wound.

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Written by Yu Xu Chao
Colorectal Surgery
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Can a perianal abscess that is draining pus heal by itself?

Perianal abscesses cannot heal on their own after they spontaneously rupture and discharge pus, which can lead to the development of anal fistulas. This is mainly due to infection of the anal glands that initially causes swelling and lumps around the anus. Once these rupture and release pus, they can form channels that develop into anal fistulas, causing repeated perianal swelling, pain, and the discharge of pus and blood. In this case, it is advised to visit the proctology department of a hospital as soon as possible for a perianal MRI scan to determine the location of the infection and the direction of the fistula tract, followed by determining the surgical method. After the rupture and discharge of a perianal abscess, a definitive one-time surgical procedure is required to treat the abscess to prevent the potential development of a fistula or a complex, high fistula, which could cause significant damage to the patient and increase the complexity of later surgeries.

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Written by Yu Xu Chao
Colorectal Surgery
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If pus is draining from a perianal abscess, does that mean it's getting better?

The discharge of pus from a perianal abscess does not indicate improvement. This situation is due to the spontaneous rupture of the perianal abscess, which can easily lead to the formation of an anal fistula. Since a perianal abscess is caused by an infection of the anal glands and can infect the surrounding tissues, the simple discharge of pus without clearing the internal opening and infected tissues will not resolve the problem. Furthermore, there is a risk of recurrent episodes that may even result in more severe swelling. Therefore, it is necessary to seek early treatment at a hospital's colorectal surgery department for a definitive one-time surgical resolution of the perianal abscess, removing the internal opening and infected tissues. Post-surgery, medications like anal washes and potassium permanganate solutions should be used for dressing changes. Additionally, medications like erythromycin ointment strips and mupirocin ointment can be used to promote healing of the local surgical site. Patients should also maintain perianal hygiene, ensure smooth bowel movements, and avoid dry, hard stools that may irritate and cause pain or bleeding at the wound site.

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Written by Chen Tian Jing
Colorectal Surgery
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Perianal abscess clinical manifestations

Perianal abscess is an acute infectious disease of the local skin, mucosa, and sphincter around the anus, characterized by certain acute clinical symptoms, most commonly pain. The onset of a perianal abscess is generally sudden, occurring within one to three days. Due to the formation of a local pus cavity, intense pain is experienced along with the red, swollen, and hot skin in the affected area. The nature of the pain is often throbbing or pecking. If the infection worsens or is not actively treated, it may also cause systemic symptoms such as fever and chills due to the pain and infection. With repeated attacks over a long term, or if the patient's physical condition is poor, further symptoms like fatigue might occur. Acute episodes of perianal abscess require prompt surgical intervention.