Very concerned about a growth near my anus

Hi.  I am very concerned about a growth I have near the top of my arse crack.  I formed 6 days ago and I do not what it is.  It has caused me alot of pain in that region.  then 3 days ago the growth popped open and this brown smelly puss has been discharging along with blood.  Since the growth popped it has got smaller and does not hurt as bad, but now there is more blood then puss in the discharge and the pain is still there.  Please let me know what this is or if there is anything I can do to stop this. Thank you

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

It doesn't sound like an STD, more likely a simple furuncle (large pimple).  Also, some people have a minor congenital anomaly called a pilonidal cyst, which typically occurs in the location you describe; it can get infected and cause symptoms like you describe.  More seriously, you might have a perirectal abscess.  The latter occurs when an infection starts inside the rectum and borrows through to the surface near the anus.  Even though it is improving, you should see a health care provider.  You may need an antibiotic and, depending on the exam findings, further tests to check out the abscess possibility.

Good luck--  HHH, MD

[lmroswell]

Sounds like a pilonidal cyst.  My husband has had two bouts with these, and two surgeries to remove it.  Sometimes they drain themselves or can be drained by a doctor.  His cyst would drain, heal, then another area would open up, and drain and then heal.  A cycle continued for a long time.  Do a search on the cyst.

[lmroswell]

One more comment.  His did not look like a growth, but as an opening in the tissue.  I am sure the doctor can give you more insight on this.  Good luck.