Anal glands – the “birthplace” of perianal infections

  The anal glands are located in the anal fossa where the anal canal and rectum meet, about 2.5 cm from the anal verge. There are 4-10 anal glands in adults and up to 50 in newborns. Most anal glands are concentrated in the posterior part of the anus, with few on the sides and anterior part. The role of the anal glands is to secrete polysaccharide mucus to lubricate the stool and protect the anal canal. Since the anal sinus is funnel-shaped with the opening facing upward, the opening of the anal glands in the anal sinus is easily blocked by feces, resulting in blocked secretion and bacterial proliferation, leading to infection. If the infection spreads to the soft tissues around the rectum, a perianal abscess is formed, and if the abscess breaks down or is cut and drained, an anal fistula is formed. Most clinical perianal abscesses and fistulas are caused by infection of the anal glands. During treatment, proper treatment of the infected anal gland area is an important part of the treatment process to ensure the effectiveness.