| Pruritus ani | |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Dermatology  |
Pruritus ani is the irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, known as the anus, causing the desire to scratch.[1] The intensity of anal itching increases from moisture,[2] pressure, and rubbing caused by clothing and sitting. At worst, anal itching causes intolerable discomfort that often is accompanied by burning and soreness. It is estimated that up to 5% of the population of the United States experiences this type of discomfort daily.
- ^ James WD, Berger T, Elston D (2006). Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology (10th ed.). Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier. ISBN 978-0-7216-2921-6. [page needed]
- ^ "Pruritus Ani". American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons. 2008. Archived from the original on March 21, 2008.