Questions in the Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum have been answered by Dr. Kevin Pho who is board certified in Internal Medicine and by doctors from Henry Ford Health System.

Question Title: Fissures

Forum: The Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum
Topic: Crohn's


My youngest brother age 27 lives in Jacksonville, FL was recently diagnosed with something they (specialist) are calling fissures. I don't know if that is the correct spelling. Two years ago he was diagnosed with Crohn's. We had never heard of it before. His problem now is there is a mucous like fluid coming from cracks or trails along the cheeks of his bottom. He has seen a gastro specialist and a rectal specialist in the Jacksonville, FL area. They are now ready to do a surgery on him where they would put in tubes to allow this fluid that does not seem to be following the normal exiting systems of the body a way out,. He is having to deal with this ***** fluid everyday. He is in extreme discomfort. My concern is that the specialist have disagreed on the diagnosis and still want to go ahead with the surgery. Is there anyone who is more familiar with a problem that has these symptoms? If there is can you put us in touch with them. Thank you

Dear Melissa,

Although fissures are associated with Crohn’s disease, other perirectal problems can also occur in this condition. Anal fistulae (abnormal connections between the rectum and skin that can drain purulent fluid) and perirectal abscesses (collections of pus) can also occur. A pilonidal cyst is a condition that can occur in this area that is unrelated to Crohn’s disease. It is important to confirm the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease with a biopsy of the colon or terminal ileum (taken during colonoscopy) or with small intestinal x-rays (if possible). Some of these perirectal and anal complications require surgical management. It is important to seek the opinion of an expert colorectal surgeon to help in the management of these conditions.

This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.

If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians’ Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Szilagy, one of our expert Colorectal Surgeons.

HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: Crohn’s disease, perianal complications

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