What is proctalgia fugax and how is it managed?
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Editor’s note: This article, originally published on Sept. 15, 2020, has been reposted to include website enhancements and updated information.
Proctalgia fugax is characterized by fleeting episodes of rectal or anal pain. It is diagnosed based on clinical history and a normal digital rectal examination.
The etiology, pathogenesis and pathophysiology of proctalgia fugax (PF) are unclear, yet its prevalence ranges from 4% to 18% in the general population, according to a study published in Journal of Surgical Case Reports. Individuals who suffer from this condition may experience impaired quality of life, as well as increased health care utilization.
Conservative measures, such as sitz baths, benzodiazepines, oral diltiazem, topic glyceryl nitrate, nerve block and salbutamol, are the main types of treatment for PF, although they have not demonstrated permanent results.
Because episodes of PF are brief, there is currently no evidence to support treatment intervention or to prevent attacks. It is recommended that clinicians give patients with PF an explanation of the disorder and reassurance.
References:
- Anal pain causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/anal-pain/basics/causes/sym-20050918. Accessed May 23, 2024.
- Grigoriou M, et al. J Surg Case Rep. 2017;doi:10.1093/jscr/rjx236.
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