Anal Cryptitis: A misdiagnosed condition.

INTRODUCTION

Crypts are small anatomical structures situated between the anal papillae, which do not cause any symptoms unless they become inflamed. Cryptitis is a localized infection of one or more of the anal crypts.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 42-year-old woman presented to our practice, complaining intermittently of anal pain and pruritus ani over a span of 1 year. She was referred multiple times to various surgeons, and she was treated conservatively for anal fissure without any evident improvement. The referred symptoms were increased often after defecation. Under general anesthesia, a hooked fistula probe was introduced into the inflamed anal crypt and the whole length of the crypt was layed open.

CONCLUSION

Anal cryptitis is a misdiagnosed condition. The un-specific symptomatology of the disease can easily mislead. The clinical suspicion is fundamental for the diagnosis. Patient's history, digital ex-amination, and anoscopy are essential for the diagnosis of anal cryptitis.