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Anal itching in HIV+ man
Sent to Health Experts September 13 10:08 PM

For the past 3+ wks, I have experienced intense anal itching. It began the day after a sexual encounter. But I have no evidence of any scabies, crabs or lice. The itching is localized to the anal area. It is particularly intense after a bowel movement and sometimes at night. I examined myself this morning and the anal area appears swollen and tender, in part due perhaps to my scratching. I have no idea whether this may be STD, particularly HIV, related. I've heard there is a new anal-related illness affecting HIV+ men that has many symptoms, including anal itching. Could this be it?

 

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Male , Age: 54

Already Tried:
No treatment.

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Status:  Closed   Value: $10
Answer
September 13 10:18 PM (9 minutes and 32 seconds later)
         
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Hello,

I would recommend having this checked by your doctor, preferably a colorectal speicalist as a precaution, but I believe you may have what is known as Pruritus Ani (not a STD).   A mild steroid cream applied every day to the area may reduce the itching. It is often a good idea to combine the steroid cream with a mild antiseptic or an antibiotic.

Pruritus ani is a chronic itching of the skin around the anus. The skin of the perirectal area is exposed to irritating digestive products in the stool; this may lead to an itchy rash, especially when stools are frequent. Often the rash is worsened by vigorous use of toilet tissue or scrubbing with soap and water. Pruritus ani usually occurs in men. The reason is unknown.

Here is some info, let me know if you have questions:

http://www.fascrs.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=17

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