Doctors Note Logo

Back

Published on: 4/7/2025

What Are the Possible Causes of a Swollen Lump between the Scrotum and Anus, and How Is It Treated?

A swollen lump between the scrotum and anus can be caused by an infection like a perianal abscess or a benign cyst, and treatment depends on the cause, ranging from conservative home care to minor surgical procedures.

answer background

Explanation

When you notice a lump in the area between your scrotum and anus, there are a few things that might be happening. One possibility is that it could be a perianal abscess, which is an infection that causes a pocket of pus to form in that area. This can make the lump feel painful, red, and warm. Sometimes, this region can develop a cyst, which is a small, benign sac filled with fluid or other material; in some cases, the cyst might become infected. Other rare causes include developmental cysts that form between the sphincters. If the lump is tender, red, or growing in size, it might need treatment right away. For an abscess, home treatments might include warm compresses to help the area drain naturally and ease some pain. However, if the infection is severe, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or perform a minor procedure to drain the pus and clear the infection. A benign, non-infected cyst that causes discomfort might be removed by a doctor through a simple surgical procedure. If you have these symptoms, it is important to get an evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan.

(References)

  • Lake E, Engledow A, Cohen C. An unusual perineal swelling: a cyst between the sphincters. J Surg Case Rep. 2010 Nov 1;2010(9):2. doi: 10.1093/jscr/2010.9.2. PMID: 24946354; PMCID: PMC3649172.

  • Parnham AS, Freeman A, Kirkham A, Muneer A. An unusual swelling in the male perineum. BMJ Case Rep. 2015 Jan 22;2015:bcr2014206199. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2014-206199. PMID: 25612751; PMCID: PMC4307079.

  • Sigmon DF, Emmanuel B, Tuma F. Perianal Abscess. [Updated 2023 Jun 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Learn more about symptoms

Perineum lump

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom check

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get an free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes, and the provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical practice. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.