Anorectal abscess and fistula

Anorectal abscesses and fistulas are seen commonly in the primary care prac tice. An abscess forms as the result of obstruction of an anal gland, with resulting retrograde infection. An anal fistula simply represents the chron ic phase of a perianal. abscess. The history generally is diagnostic, and s pecial studies usually are not required. Treatment is surgical, with good r esults.