User:Mr. Ibrahem/Perianal itching

Perianal itching, also known as pruritus ani, is an irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, causing the desire to scratch. Scratching, in turn, makes the itching worse. Scratching may also result in skin breakdown, thickening of the skin over time, or infections.

While many cases occur due to an unknown cause, in 10% to 75% an underlying condition is present. Conditions may include skin diseases, infections, anorectal disorders, cancers, or systemic diseases. Skin diseases include dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, lichen planus, and lichen sclerosus. Infections may include pinworms, candidiasis, tinea cruris, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Anorectal disorders may include hemorrhoids, anal fistula, and anal fissures. Systemic diseases may include diabetes, liver disease, and kidney failure.

Treatment involves avoiding or treating the underlying cause. Keeping the area clean and dry is also recommended. Use of soap on the area is discouraged. Hydrocortisone cream (1%) may be recommended for a short period. It is common, with about 1% to 5% of the population is affected. Males are more commonly affected than females and it most commonly affects those in their 40s to 60s. The condition has been described since around 1200 BC in the Chester Beatty Medical Papyrus.