-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
digestive system
pruritus ani
diagnoses
definition and etiology
definition: anal and perianal itching
etiology: there are many contributing factors in pruritus ani:
dermatologic disorders: e.g. psoriasis
micro-organisms: e.g. candida
parasites: e.g. pinworms
allergic reactions: e.g. contact dermatitis
oral antibiotic therapy: esp. tetracyclines
hygiene: either too little or too much.
psychogenic response: anxiety-causing-itch-causing-anxiety
warmth and hyperhidrosis: e.g. obesity, tight underwear
diseases: systemic (e.g. diabetes) proctologic (e.g. draining fistula), neoplasm
signs and symptoms
the skin may be normal or show signs reflecting the underlying cause
excoriations may be present.
secondary infections may be present
lab findings:
check for pinworms (Scotch tape prep)
culture if indicated
food sensitivity testing
other tests to rule out possible underlying pathology
course and prognosis
Pruritus ani usually clears up quickly if the cause is analyzed and treated. The type of treatment will vary accordingly. Conventional physicians sometimes suggest avoiding spicy foods and citrus fruits, esp. grapefruit, which may aggravate the condition, but are not viewed as causative. Other physicians and health care providers may suggest specific dietary changes in accordance with the results of food sensitivity testing. Appropriate antibiotics may be required for pinworm infections, which are a common cause of this condition.
differential diagnosis
differentiate underlying conditions
footnotes