(GP) (Surgery)

Overview

• A split in the skin of the distal anal canal
• M=F, more common in young adults (15-40 yrs old)
• Chronic is >6wks
• Primary (Due to local Trauma) → low fibre intake, chronic constipation or diarrhoea, anal sex
• Secondary (Due to Underlying Disease) → previous anal surgery, IBD, infections, malignancy
• Risk Factors → hard stool/constipation (can tear skin in distal anal canal), pregnancy (may occur in 3rd trimester or after delivery), opiates (associated with constipation)

Making Diagnosis

Clinical Features:

• Pain on defecation
• Tearing sensation on passing stool
• Fresh blood on stool or on paper
• Anal spasm

Investigations: