a hole deep in the skin?

[Violet908]

My boyfriend has a hole near his anus. It's about an inch or 2 above his anus and is approx 2mm-3mm wide. It bleeds when he sits too long or sometimes with he defecates. He says he's had it for many years now and never got it checked out. I'm asking the question because he's too shy to do it himself. Any idea what it could be?

[Coombs99]

Thank you, I as well was worried about this problem.  What type of surgeon should I see?  General doctor for yearly check-ups or go to a hospital?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
When the pilonidal cyst forms a sinus or fistula then infection can be introduced.The mode of treatment varies according to circumstances, the size and extent of the sinus, and whether it is a first or recurrent problem.

Presently,the various methods used are incision and drainage,excision and healing by secondary intention,excision and primary closure,excision with reconstructive flap techniques and sinus surgery.

Pls discuss these options with your fiance’s surgeon.
Hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how your fiancé is doing if you have any additional queries.

[Violet908]

What is the worst case scenario if it is a deep tract or extent to the spinal cord? Would it need surgery? If it needed surgery what would the surgery consist of?

[Violet908]

Is it bad that it bleeds? I'll get him to see a doctor when he comes back into town and thank you so much for answering my question. I was worried because we didn't even know what it was, so again thankyou.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This hole near the base of spine is called pilonidal dimple.It is a small pit or sinus in the sacral area at the very top of the crease between the buttocks.

The majority of pilonidal dimples are harmless, congenital anomalies that consist of a small depression or pit. There may be increased hairiness around the area.
The pilonidal dimple may also be a deep tract, rather than a shallow depression, leading to a sinus that may contain hair. These can become infected and drain. On rare occasions, the sinus may extend into the spinal cord.

I would suggest a general surgeon’s evaluation for this.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how your friend is doing or if you have any additional queries.Kind regards.

[Pum]

A mild sort of spina bifida? or an ingrown hair that is commonly found in that spot. I don't think it's a problem unless it gets infected.