ABSTRACT
Anorectal sepsis is a common condition accounting for a large proportion of acute surgical admissions. It occurs most frequently in the third and fourth decades, and is more common in males. Eisenhammer and Parks proposed the 'cryptoglandular theory' of anorectal sepsis, and anal gland infection is now accepted as the commonest source of anorectal sepsis. The anal glands are situated between the internal and external sphincter at the level of the dentate line, and communicate with the mucosa and submucosa via ducts arising from the anal valves. Haemorrhoids are common and occur when the normal 'vascular cushions' of the anal canal become enlarged. As haemorrhoids enlarge they protrude through the anus. The anus acts as a constricting agent causing vascular compromise with resulting infarction and thrombosis of the haemorrhoid. Treat symptoms with ice packs and topical analgesia. This is usually sufficient as the condition is self-limiting.
