A perianal abscess is a painful, pus-filled lump that forms just outside the anus. It happens when a small gland in the anal area becomes blocked and infected, leading to swelling, redness, and discomfort. Without prompt care, the infection can spread or lead to more serious complications.
Symptoms of a perianal abscess often come on quickly and may include:
Perianal abscesses develop when bacteria infect a blocked gland in the anal region. Common risk factors include:
At GastroDoxs in Houston, we combine colorectal expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care to treat perianal abscesses effectively. Our board-certified gastroenterologist offers precise diagnosis, in-office drainage procedures under local anesthesia, and personalized aftercare guidance-including sitz bath recommendations and nutritional support. We prioritize clear communication, accurate ICD-10 coding (K61.0), and proactive follow-up to ensure a smooth recovery and help prevent future issues. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward fast, reliable relief.
We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
A perianal abscess is a painful, pus-filled lump that forms just beneath the skin around the anus when an anal gland becomes blocked and infected.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam of the anal area. If needed, imaging tests such as ultrasound help determine the abscess's size and depth.
The ICD-10 code for a perianal abscess is K61.0. This code ensures accurate medical records and supports insurance claims.
Not always. Small abscesses may respond to antibiotics alone, but most require a minor drainage procedure performed under local anesthesia for complete relief.
Perianal abscesses form just under the skin around the anus, while perirectal abscesses develop deeper in the tissues and may need more extensive treatment.
With proper treatment and aftercare-such as warm sitz baths and hygiene-most people recover within one to two weeks, though individual healing times vary.
Seek medical care if you experience persistent anal pain, swelling, redness, fever, or notice drainage of pus or blood near the anus.
Untreated abscesses can lead to spreading infection, increased pain, and the formation of an anal fistula, which often requires more complex surgery.
Home measures like warm sitz baths and good hygiene can ease symptoms, but most abscesses need professional evaluation and drainage to fully resolve.
Insurance coverage varies by plan. At GastroDoxs, we use precise ICD-10 coding and will discuss costs and your coverage options before beginning treatment.
