Pimple, Cyst, or Abscess Near The Anus
What Is A Pimple, Cyst or Abscess Near The Anus?
If you feel a lump or tender bump around your anus, it could be a pimple, cyst, or even an abscess on the butt. These can be caused by a number of conditions, most of which are treatable.
Pimples
Pimples near the anus are similar to pimples that appear on other parts of the body. An anal pimple can take the form of a whitehead, blackhead, papule, pustule, or nodule.
- Whiteheads: Small, flesh-coloured or slightly lighter bumps form on the skin when pores are clogged but closed.
- Blackheads: Open clogged pores that appear dark due to oxidation.
- Papules: Small, raised, solid bumps that may feel rough.
- Pustules: Red or pink bumps with a white or yellow pus-filled tip.
- Nodules: Larger, deeper lumps embedded under the skin and have a firm texture.
Cysts
Cysts near the anus, such as pilonidal cysts, are round and closed sacs of tissue typically filled with air, fluid, pus, or other materials such as visible hair or debris. They are often located near the crease of the buttocks, and appear as smooth, dome-shaped lumps under the skin.
These differ from pimples in that they are located deeper in the tissue than pimples, which typically form at the topmost layers of the skin. Cysts also tend to feel firmer, and are often painless or less tender than pimples unless infected.
Once infected, a cyst may develop into an abscess.
Abscess
An abscess on the butt, also known as a perianal or anorectal abscess, is a swollen cavity filled with pus that develops just beneath the skin near the anus. It typically appears as a firm, rounded lump that may be red or darker in color, with a visibly stretched or shiny surface due to the accumulation of fluid inside.
Abscesses are seated deeper than pimples and are generally much larger, firmer, and more painful. They are the result of a cyst being infected.
Not all cysts turn into abscesses, but the ones that do are often infected by bacteria.
Causes of a Pimple, Cyst or Abscess Near The Anus
Causes of Pimples Near The Anus
There are several possible causes of a pimple forming near the anus. Usually, it happens when pores get clogged by oil, bacteria, or friction. Common contributing factors include these:
Hormonal Changes
Puberty, pregnancy, and stress can all cause hormonal changes that make pimple formation more likely.
Trapped Moisture
This often happens from wearing tight clothes or with prolonged sitting
Bacteria
Bacteria from stool or sexual activity can be left in the area, which can lead to pimple formation.
Poor Hygiene
Failure to remove irritants, moisture, or bacteria regularly can also support pimple development.
Skin Irritation
Tight clothing and sustained friction or pressure to the area can lead to pimples.
Family History of Acne
A genetic history of acne appears to predispose some people to also develop acne.
Diet
Diets high in sugar or dairy may lead to increased acne formation in some people.
Causes of Pilonidal Cysts or Cysts Near The Anus
Pilonidal cysts can form due to a variety of factors, including inflamed pimples. Here are some possible causes of cyst formation:
Ingrown Hairs
Hair that grows back into the skin in the buttock crease can trigger a reaction, leading to cyst formation.
Skin Friction and Pressure
Activities involving prolonged sitting or repetitive motion near the tailbone can cause irritation that leads to cyst development.
Skin Infection
Debris or ingrown hairs may introduce bacteria beneath the skin, resulting in a cyst.
Anatomical Factors
A deep buttock cleft or coarse body hair can increase the risk of cyst formation.
Genetic Predisposition
Some people are more likely to develop cysts due to inherited traits.
Inflamed Pimples
Pimples in the area that become inflamed have a chance of turning into cysts.
Causes of Abscesses Near The Anus
Abscesses can form around the anus for a number of reasons, including a cyst becoming infected. Below are some contributing factors and possible causes of abscess formation:
Blocked Anal Glands
Glands located inside the anus may become clogged due to bacteria, fecal matter, or other debris.
Infection Developing Inside The Anal Gland
Once blocked, the gland can become infected, leading to the buildup of pus and fluid.
Skin Trauma or Irritation
Minor injuries or persistent irritation around the anus may make it easier for infections to occur.
Underlying Anorectal Conditions
Chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or a history of anal infections may increase susceptibility.
Cyst Infection
Infected cysts may fill with pus, turning them into abscesses.
Other Possible Lumps or Causes of Lumps Near the Anus
Not all bumps near the anus are pimples, cysts, or abscesses. Below are some other possibilities:
Hemorrhoids
Enlarged blood vessels inside or around the anal canal, often caused by straining, aging, constipation, or pregnancy.
A tunnel that may develop after an anal abscess, connecting an infected gland to the skin surface.
Anal Warts
Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these growths can occur outside or inside the anus.
Anal Cancer
In some cases, a lump may be due to a tumor, often associated with previous HPV infections.
How to Tell If You Have a Pimple, Cyst, Abscess or Other Lumps Near The Anus
It may be difficult to tell the difference between a pimple, cyst, abscess, or other types of lumps near the anus. While some may look similar at first glance, there are some key differences in how they feel, develop, and behave. Recognising these signs can help you decide if you need to monitor the lump and when to seek medical attention.
| Types of Lumps near Anus | Typical Distinguishing Traits |
|---|---|
|
Pimple near The Anus |
|
|
|
|
Perianal Abscess
(Abscess near the anus)
|
|
|
Haemorrhoids
(Swollen veins near the anus) |
|
|
Anal warts from HPV (Condylomas) |
|
|
Anal cancer |
|
See a Doctor for Diagnosis and Treatment
If you think you have a pimple, cyst or abscess near your anus, book an appointment with us for a proper medical assessment and recommended treatment plans.
What to Be Concerned About with A Lump Near The Anus
Most lumps near the anus are harmless and can go away on their own. However, you should see a doctor if you’ve observed any of the following:
- It doesn’t improve after a few days of self-care or OTC treatment.
- You’re unsure what it is (pimple, cyst, haemorrhoid, etc.).
- You notice it becoming more painful, red, or swollen.
- There’s pus, fluid, or blood leaking from it.
- It’s large, painful, or there are multiple bumps.
- Sitting, coughing, or passing stool causes pain.
- It keeps coming back or appears higher up the buttock crease than before.
You should seek urgent or emergency care if:
- You have fever, chills, or feel unwell.
- The bump becomes very painful or suddenly grows noticeably.
- There’s a foul-smelling discharge from the lump.
- It looks or feels unusual.
- You have a weakened immune system or ongoing health issues.
How A Pimple, Cyst or Abscess Near The Anus Is Diagnosed
Your doctor may request a detailed medical history and discuss your symptoms, asking questions like these:
- Where the bump or pain is located
- How long you’ve had it and if it has changed since it first developed
- Whether it drains any fluid and what the fluid is like
- If it causes pain or discomfort, especially when sitting, coughing, or during bowel movements
- If there are symptoms like fever or swelling
During physical examination, your doctor will also inspect and feel the area around the lump and buttocks. This may involve the following:
- Checking for redness, swelling, tenderness, or pus
- A rectal exam – typically involves feeling deeper inside the rectum with a gloved finger to detect lumps or abscesses not visible on the surface
- A proctosigmoidoscopy, or using a small camera to see inside the anus and rectum if needed
If the lump isn’t visible or seems deeper under the skin, your doctor may suggest tests like these for visualisation:
- Ultrasound, CT, or MRI scan to check for hidden abscesses or rule out other issues
- Further examination to detect persistent or unusual lumps, especially to rule out infections or cancer
How A Pimple, Cyst or Abscess Near The Anus Is Diagnosed
Some pimples, cysts, and abscesses near the anus may improve with self-care, but the success of that depends on the condition and its severity. Some of these lumps might require a surgical procedure for proper drainage or removal.
How A Pimple, Cyst or Abscess Near The Anus Is Diagnosed
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Wipe the area thoroughly after bowel movements
- Wear breathable cotton underwear
- Use over-the-counter acne treatments such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, but only upon a doctor’s recommendation
Medical Treatments for Pilonidal Cysts
- Drainage in a clinic for mild cases
- Antibiotics or injections to reduce inflammation
- Laser hair removal to prevent recurrence
- Surgery for chronic or severe cysts, followed by proper wound care
Medical Treatments for Perianal Abscesses
- Medical drainage with anaesthesia
- Post-drainage care such as warm sitz baths, antibiotics, pain relief, and stool softeners
Symptoms
Book an Appointment for Pimples, Cysts, or Abscesses Near the Anus
Early detection and diagnosis can help prevent a simple pimple from developing into a cyst or abscess. See a doctor for a thorough medical examination and receive the appropriate treatment for your condition.