ABSTRACT
Anorectal conditions are very common maladies that affect most people at one time or another. These disease processes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, perirectal abscesses, fistula-in-ano, pruritus ano, and pilonidal disease. All of these conditions are frustrating to the patient and can be just as vexing for the treating physician. Anorectal disease and the complications of these disease processes remain rather straightforward in their diagnosis. However, the treatment process can often be complex and drawnout. With this in mind, the first step in diagnosing and treating an anorectal problem, whether in the most sophisticated hospital setting or the most austere environment, is having a solid understanding of anorectal anatomy and physiology. The provider must also be able to discern between the subtle and often overlapping symptoms of the anorectal disease processes. Understanding the disease processes will enable providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that will alleviate the suffering of the patient.
