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What is a Fistula Boil?

Published in Colorectal Health 2 mins read

A "fistula boil" is not a standard medical term, but it likely refers to an anal fistula, which can sometimes present with boil-like symptoms due to infection and inflammation around the opening. Essentially, it describes the external presentation of an anal fistula which might resemble a boil.

Understanding Anal Fistulas

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that connects the anal canal (the end of the digestive tract) to an opening in the skin near the anus. It often develops as a result of a previous or current anal abscess.

How Fistulas Develop

  1. Anal Abscess: An infection occurs in an anal gland, leading to the formation of an abscess (a pus-filled cavity).
  2. Drainage: The abscess either drains on its own or is surgically drained.
  3. Fistula Formation: If the abscess doesn't heal completely, a tunnel can form between the infected gland inside the anus and the skin outside, creating a fistula.

Why it might be called a "fistula boil"

The external opening of the fistula may appear as a red, inflamed bump resembling a boil. This is due to:

  • Inflammation: The ongoing infection causes inflammation around the external opening.
  • Pus Drainage: The fistula may drain pus or other fluids, which can further irritate the surrounding skin, making it look like a boil that is constantly leaking.

Symptoms of an Anal Fistula

While the "fistula boil" appearance can be a symptom, other symptoms include:

  • Pain, which can be constant, throbbing, or worsened by bowel movements.
  • Swelling and redness around the anus.
  • Drainage of pus or blood from the opening.
  • Skin irritation around the anus.
  • Fever (in some cases).

Treatment

Fistulas usually require surgical treatment to close the tunnel. Common surgical procedures include:

  • Fistulotomy: Cutting open the entire length of the fistula to create a groove that heals from the inside out.
  • Fistulectomy: Removing the entire fistula tract.
  • Seton Placement: Placing a suture (seton) in the fistula to promote drainage and healing, or to prepare for a more definitive surgery.
  • Advancement Flap: Covering the internal opening of the fistula with a flap of tissue.
  • LIFT procedure (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract): A procedure to close the fistula tract between the sphincter muscles.

Important Note

If you suspect you have an anal fistula, it's crucial to consult a doctor or colorectal surgeon for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Self-treating with over-the-counter remedies is generally ineffective and can potentially worsen the condition.