[The diagnosis and treatment of perianal dermatitis].

Perianal dermatitis is one of the most common proctological disorders. The anatomy of the anal region provides suitable conditions for the development of dermatitis. In the diagnostic work-up and the management of patients with perianal dermatitis, three types need to be distinguished: irritant contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and allergic contact dermatitis. Each type has its aetiological and pathogenetic factors, which will provide clues to the diagnosis and subsequent management of the condition. In the differential diagnosis of the condition, consideration should be given to inflammatory diseases of the perianal region which may produce eczema-like patterns.