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Pronunciations anorectal atopic atopic dermatitis candidiasis corticosteroid dermatitis fistula proctitis pruritus psoriasis

Itchy skin around the anus (pruritus ani) can have many causes.

Causes of Anal Itching Category Examples Disorders Anal disorders Bowen's disease   Fistulas that drain   Inflammation of a follicle in the rectum (cryptitis)   Paget's disease of the anal sweat glands Bacterial infections*   Fungal infections Yeast infection (candidiasis) Parasitic infections Pinworms   Scabies Skin disorders Atopic dermatitis   Psoriasis   Skin tags Other disorders Diabetes   Liver disorders Other factors Anxiety Anxiety about itching (anxiety-itch-anxiety cycle) Drugs Antibiotics Foods and dietary supplements Beer   Caffeinated beverages (such as coffee and cola)   Citrus fruits   Spices   Vitamin C tablets Hygiene-related problems Excessive sweating   Overly meticulous cleansing   Poor cleansing   Tight undergarments Skin irritants Anesthetic preparations   Ointments   Soaps *Bacterial infections around the anus often start when scratching breaks the skin so that bacteria can enter the body.

After bowel movements, the anal area should be cleaned with absorbent cotton or soft, plain toilet or facial tissue, which may be moistened with warm water. Frequent dusting with cornstarch or talcum powder helps combat moisture. Corticosteroid creams, antifungal creams such as miconazoleSome Trade Names
MICATIN
MONISTAT
, or soothing suppositories may be used. Foods that can cause anal itching are avoided for a while to see whether the condition improves. Clothing should be loose, and bed clothing should be lightweight. If the condition does not improve and a doctor suspects cancer, a skin specimen may be obtained for examination.

Last full review/revision October 2007 by Parswa Ansari, MD; Norman Sohn, MD