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Discoloration of Skin Around the Anus

People can develop a discoloration of skin around the anus from an anal fistula. An anal fistula is an abnormal tract that runs from the rectum or anus to the skin around the opening of the anus.

  1. Anal Fistula

    • According to RxMed.com, an anal fistula is a channel that often originates in a deep gland in the wall of a person’s rectum or anus and causes noticeable skin discoloration where the fistula reaches the anus. This disorder can also grow from an abscess in the anus or rectum.

    Causes

    • Anal fistulas can result from an infection that causes an abscess to burst and leave behind an anal fistula channel. Bowel cancer and inflammation of the bowel can also cause anal fistulas.

    Symptoms

    • People with anal fistulas might experience pain during bowel movements and afterward. Anal fistula sufferers can also notice a tender and firm anal lump and an intermittent or constant discharge.

    Risk Factors

    • Individuals with puncture wounds in the lining of the anal canal and patients who received injection treatments for hemorrhoids have an increased risk of developing anal fistulas. Patients with infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and diverticulitis have a higher risk of getting an anal fistula.

    Treatment

    • Doctors usually treat anal fistulas by surgically removing the fistula. Patients can develop constipation or bowel incontinence after the surgery.

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