perianal abscess [Gk, peri, around; L, anus + abscedere, to go away] , a focal, purulent, subcutaneous infection in the region of the anus. Treatment includes hot soaks, antibiotics, and possibly incision and drainage. If a rectal fistula or perianal space is found to be the cause of recurrent perianal abscesses, surgical excision is usually performed.
