An anal fistula is a small tunnel that develops between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus (where poo leaves the body).
They're usually the result of an infection near the anus causing a collection of pus (abscess) in the nearby tissue.
When the pus drains away, it can leave a small channel behind.
Anal fistulas can cause unpleasant symptoms, such as discomfort and skin irritation, and will not usually get better on their own.
Surgery is recommended in most cases.
Symptoms of an anal fistula can include:
skin irritation around the anus
a constant, throbbing pain that may be worse when you sit down, move around, poo or cough
smelly discharge from near your anus
passing pus or blood when you poo
swelling and redness around your anus and a high temperature (fever) if you also have an abscess
difficulty controlling bowel movements (bowel incontinence) in some cases.