Introduction
- Rare condition.
- Anal sac disease comprises 3 entities:
- Impaction.
- Secondary infection.
- Abscessation.
- Cause : unknown.
- Signs : tenesmus, redness and swelling over anal sac region.
- Diagnosis : palpation and expressing anal sacs.
- Treatment : expression of anal sacs; irrigation with an antiseptic solution and antibiotic instillation. Hot packs can be applied topically by the owner daily for 7-10 days.
- Prognosis : may become chronic and require surgical removal .
Diagnosis
Clinical signs
- Redness/swelling over anal sac region.
- Palpation of anal sacs very painful.
- Thin, sanguinous and sometimes purulent discharge seen when sacs are expressed.
- Severe cellulitis or abscess formation.
Diagnosis
Differential diagnosis
- Tail base pruritus, eg flea bite hypersensitivity
.
- Anal pruritus.
- Anal sac neoplasia.
Sequelae
Prognosis
- Recurrence likely if simply emptied.
- Good prognosis following successful surgery.
Expected response to treatment
- Resolution of signs.
Reasons for treatment failure
- Underlying disease, eg anal sac neoplasia.
Complications
- Fistula with incomplete resection.
- Incontinence (fecal) if excessive muscle damage.
Sources
Publications
Refereed papers
- Greer M B & Calhoun M L (1966)Anal sacs of the cat (Felis domesticus).Am J Vet Res27(118), 773-781.
