How is Anal Fistula caused?

Most fistulas begin as anorectal abscesses. When the abscess opens spontaneously into the anal canal (or has been opened surgically), a fistula may occur. Approximately, 8-50% of perianal abscess patients end up having an anal fistula.

Other causes of fistulas include tuberculosis, cancer, injury (trauma), Crohn’s disease, after Radiation therapy, anal Fissure, and infections (actinomycoses, chlamydial etc). Fistulas may occur singly or in multiples.