Perianal Cellulitis

Cellulitis (a bacterial skin infection) that occurs around the anal orifice is called perianal cellulitis. This type of cellulitis is most commonly seen in children and is more common in boys than girls. Perianal cellulitis is characterized by bright red skin around the anus. Other symptoms of the infection include painful bowel movements, blood in the stool, itching around the anus, and tenderness. Perianal cellulitis is treated with antibiotics.

 

Perianal Cellulitis: An Introduction

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin characterized by swelling, redness, warmth, and pain. It is one of the most common infections seen by doctors; cellulitis affects people of all ages. Cellulitis that occurs around the anal orifice is called perianal cellulitis. Perianal cellulitis usually occurs in children and is more common in boys than girls.
 

Causes of Perianal Cellulitis

Perianal cellulitis is an infection that is caused by bacteria. The most common cause of perianal cellulitis is group A streptococcus, which is a bacterium commonly found on the throat and on the skin. However, doctors can seldom explain why one person will get perianal cellulitis and another will not.
 

Symptoms of Perianal Cellulitis

Perianal cellulitis is characterized by bright red skin around the anus. Other symptoms of perianal cellulitis include:
 
  • Painful bowel movements
  • Blood in the stool
  • Itching around the anus
  • Tenderness.
 
Unlike other types of cellulitis, people with perianal cellulitis usually do not have fever, body aches, or fatigue. However, a sore throat may occur in some people prior to experiencing symptoms of perianal cellulitis.
 
(Perianal Cellulitis Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD