Abstract
There has long been a consensus for a number of points concerning the clinical assessment of cryptoglandular fistulae. This assessment is extremely useful for the following purposes: (1) the diagnosis of anal cryptoglandular fistulae and differential diagnosis; (2) topographic evaluation of the tract of the principal fistula and possible purulent collection and secondary extensions; (3) evaluation of the anatomy of the anal canal and of the sphincter apparatus. These diverse elements are essential to ensure correct management of this disease, which is challenging to treat due to the need to dry out the suppuration without exposing the patient to a risk of subsequent anal incontinence. However, this assessment is sometimes difficult and, given the potentially major consequences for the patient, doctors should not hesitate to seek the support of a more experienced specialist.
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de Parades, V. et al. (2021). Clinical Assessment of Anal Cryptoglandular Abscess and Fistula. In: Ratto, C., Parello, A., Litta, F., De Simone, V., Campennì, P. (eds) Anal Fistula and Abscess. Coloproctology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-30902-2_9-1
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