Despite sharing some similarities in terms of symptoms and location, pilonidal disease and anal fistula are not the same condition.
This means that their origin, characteristics and, therefore, treatments, are different and we will see it below.
What is Pilonidal Disease?
Pilonidal disease, also known as pilonidal cyst, is a condition that develops in the region near the tailbone, in the lower back.
This condition originates due to the accumulation of hair, dead skin and other debris in the crease of the buttocks, leading to the formation of a pus-filled cyst or abscess.
Pilonidal cyst is more common in young adults and tends to affect men more regularly than women.
Causes of Pilonidal Disease
The exact causes are not completely clear, but some of the reasons why pilonidal sinus forms are thought to be repeated friction, pressure, and hair buildup in the buttock crease area are contributing factors.
There has also been speculation about a genetic predisposition and the possible hormonal influence on its development.
Symptoms of Pilonidal Disease
Symptoms of pilonidal disease can vary in severity and presentation.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness in the affected area, which may appear tender and swollen.
- Redness in the skin over the abscess, which also tends to swell due to infection.
- Pus discharge, the abscess may drain pus, resulting in foul-smelling discharge and a damp feeling.
- Difficulty when sitting due to the pain and discomfort it generates.
- In some cases, fistulas (abnormal channels) may develop and connect to the abscess.
The intensity and combination of these symptoms may vary from patient to patient.
What is an Anal Fistula?
An anal fistula is an abnormal connection that forms between the inside of the anal canal and the skin surrounding the anus, usually as a result of an untreated anal abscess.
When an abscess drains spontaneously or is drained surgically, it can leave an anal fistula.. Estas fístulas anales pueden variar en tamaño y complejidad, causando molestias y complicaciones si no se tratan adecuadamente.
Causes of Anal Fistula
Anal fistulas usually develop as a complication of an anal infection, such as a perianal abscess.
These infections can be the result of clogged or infected anal glands.
They may also be related to medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and tuberculosis.
Symptoms of Anal Fistula
Symptoms of an anal fistula can vary depending on the location and severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain: Pain in the anal region is a prominent symptom, especially during bowel movements and when sitting.
- Drainage of pus: There may be drainage of pus or blood through the opening of the fistula.
- Itching and discomfort: The affected area may experience itching, redness, and general discomfort.
- Localized inflammation around the fistula.
- Recurrent abscesses: Periodic abscess formation in the same area may be an indicator of an underlying fistula.
Differences between Pilonidal Disease and Anal Fistula
Although pilonidal cyst and anal fistula may share symptoms such as pain and inflammation, they are different conditions and here are their main differences.
Location
Pilonidal disease affects the area between the buttocks, just above the tailbone, while anal fistula involves the abnormal connection between the anal canal and the surrounding skin.
Origin
The pilonidal sinus is characterized by the accumulation of hair or dead skin in a cyst or abscess, while anal fistula is caused by an infection of the anal glands.
Symptoms
In pilonidal disease mainly pain, inflammation, redness, pus secretion and difficulty when sitting; in Anal fistula drainage of pus or blood, itching, inflammation and recurrent abscess formation.
Demographic predisposition
Pilonidal sinus mainly affects young people, especially men; while Anal fistula can affect people of different ages and genders, depending on the underlying causes.
Potential complications
In the case of pilonidal disease, risk of recurrence and complications in wound healing after surgery; as for Anal fistula, persistent infections and problematic healing.
Treatment of Pilonidal Disease
Treatment for pilonidal disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, measures such as proper hygiene and hair removal may be sufficient.
However, in more severe or recurrent cases, modified Karydakis surgery may be necessary.
Anal Fistula Surgery
Treatment for an anal fistula usually involves surgery. The goal is to remove the fistula and close the abnormal connection between the anal canal and the surrounding skin.
Depending on the complexity of the fistula, the surgery may be simple or more extensive.
The healing process after surgery can be prolonged, and patients may require postoperative care to prevent recurrences and promote a successful recovery.
For either condition, recognizing the symptoms and seeking early medical attention will be crucial for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
If you experience symptoms such as pain, inflammation, or drainage of pus in these areas, we recommend speaking to an expert.
At innova surgery we have a team specialized in pilonidal sinus, coloproctology and general surgery.
