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Facts about skin from the New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated. Topic index: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Pruritus ani

Itching of the skin about the anus (opening of the rectum) is a common complaint.

Anal itching is usually an isolated skin complaint in otherwise healthy persons, but in some it is part of a disorder involving other areas of the skin, especially the vulva in women and children.

Common conditions affecting the anus include:

The anal skin is exposed to irritating digestive products which may result in a rash (irritant dermatitis). The rash is made worse by:

Treatment

Pruritus ani is frequently persistent and recurrent. The above advice should be followed indefinitely.

Related information

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Author: Vanessa Ngan, staff writer

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If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice.