Pruritus ani

Abstract

Perianal itching has always been an unpleasant and constant affliction of the human bottom. Previously widespread around the world, it remains a very common symptom that is difficult to handle and socially embarrassing. It affects approximately 5% of the population in the developed world and its incidence has increased in regions where intestinal infestations are endemic. Contrary to popular belief, males are four times more frequently affected than females [1]. The reasons for this epidemiological difference are still unknown. Hygiene and eating habits play an important role in the etiology, but social environment and culture determine greatly the perception and tolerability of this symptom, warranting its high prevalence. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.