Perianal fistula is a painful, chronic condition in which single or multiple ulcerated tracts develop in the tissue around the anus. No one clear cause has been established, although many have been considered. Some of the factors involved appear to be a broad tail base and low tail carriage, and an increased density of sweat glands in the anal region. It is these sweat glands that become inflamed and infected, leading to the draining sinus tracts typical of this condition.
How is perianal fistula inherited?
unknown, but there is a strong breed predisposition for the breeds mentioned below.
What breeds are affected by perianal fistula?
German shephard , Irish setter
For many breeds and many disorders, the studies to determine the mode of inheritance or the frequency in the breed have not been carried out, or are inconclusive. We have listed breeds for which there is a consensus among those investigating in this field and among veterinary practitioners, that the condition is significant in this breed.
What does perianal fistula mean to your dog & you?
This condition is painful for your dog. The types of signs you will see include straining or pain with defecation, bleeding, constipation, fecal incontinence, licking of the area, and malodorous anorectal discharge. These signs worsen as more tissue in the area around the anus becomes affected.
How is perianal fistula diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually straightforward, based on your description of what you observe in your dog, and on physical examination in which your veterinarian will find single or multiple areas of ulceration and draining tracts, with pus and blood. Your veterinarian may also take a skin biopsy if s/he suspects a tumour in the area (which usually has a more raised appearance, but can also be associated with extensive ulceration).
How is perianal fistula treated?
This is a difficult condition to treat. Medical treatment (combination of antibiotics, antiseptics, and anti-inflammatory drugs) only provides temporary relief, and is usually not successful in clearing up the condition. Generally surgery is required, and there are several methods used including surgical removal of the tracts, freezing or cautery of the tissue, and tail amputation. Possible post-operative complications include significant bleeding, fecal incontinence, and recurrence of the tracts.
In mild cases, surgery often results in complete resolution of the problem, without recurrence. Where the problem is more severe (more tissue destruction), there is a lower rate of success and a higher occurrence of complications. Your veterinarian will discuss all this with you when considering what is best for your dog.
Although the inheritance (or even the cause of the condition) is not understood, it is preferable not to breed affected animals.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DISORDER, PLEASE SEE YOUR VETERINARIAN.
Copyright © 1998 Canine Inherited Disorders Database. All rights reserved.
Revised: April 27, 2001.This database is a joint initiative of the Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre at the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.