Victor’s Story: An anal fistula causing intermittent drainage, moisture, and secondary itching
A 56-year-old construction estimator looking for an explanation for recurrent focal swelling, a small opening near the anus, intermittent pus, moisture, itching, and episodes of pain
Victor was a construction estimator whose first explanation was a recurring ingrown hair.
The decision changed when the same spot repeatedly swelled, drained pus, and then temporarily improved. The combination of recurrent focal swelling, a small opening near the anus, intermittent pus, moisture, itching, and episodes of pain required a more specific evaluation.
Examination found an external opening with drainage, and pelvic imaging mapped a fistula tract after prior abscess. The itch was secondary; topical creams could not close the tract.
The final plan used infection assessment, drainage of any abscess, colorectal treatment of the fistula tailored to sphincter anatomy, and skin protection during healing. Follow-up measured safety, symptom resolution, objective recovery, and the risk of recurrence.
The itch marked the drainage site, but the tract underneath was the condition that needed treatment.