an abnormal tube-like passageway from the anal canal to a hole in the skin near the opening of the anus

an abnormal tunnel from the anus to the skin near the anus

a narrow tunnel running from the skin near the back passage and opening into the anal canal higher up

a narrow tunnel running from the skin near the back passage and opening into the back passage higher up

an inflammatory tract between the anal canal and skin

a small, abnormal tunnel connecting the anal glands from which abscesses originate to the skin of the buttocks outside the anus

a track between the skin on the outside and the anal canal on

a tunnel that connects the anus to the skin of the buttocks

A tubular structure developing between anus in the skin. A fistula can actually connect with any part of the gastrointestinal tract or other organs within the body. A fistula is usually secondary to abscess formation. This abnormality is often associated with Crohn's disease.

channel that develops between the anus and the skin. Most fistulas are the result of an abscess (infection) that spreads to the skin.

A channel that develops between the anus and the skin. Usually a result of an infection that spreads to the skin. It may be a complication from inflammatory bowel disease.

an abnormal tube-like passage connecting the anus to the surface of the surrounding skin

An anal fistula is an abnormal connection between the epithelialised surface of the anal canal and (usually) the perianal skin. (See definition of a fistula).