What Are the Potential Causes of a Lump Near the Anus, and How Can They Be Differentiated?

There are several possible causes for a lump near the anus. One common cause is hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins that often feel soft and may not hurt much. They are usually found inside the rectum (internal) or just outside the anus (external), and they often come and go. Another possibility is a perirectal abscess, which is an infection that creates a pocket of pus. These usually hurt a lot, may be red or warm to touch, and can be accompanied by fever or other signs of infection. A less common but important cause is a tumor or neoplasm, which might feel hard and may not get better on its own. To figure out which one it is, a doctor will start with a physical exam, asking questions about any pain and looking at the lump closely. They might use imaging tests like an ultrasound or even take a sample (biopsy) to check the cells. Each cause has different features, and careful evaluation helps decide the best treatment.