Anal Sac Impaction

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Category:WikiClinical FelineCow
Category:WikiClinical CanineCow

Signalment

  • Small breeds are predisposed
  • German Shepherd
  • Obese dogs
  • Cats can also suffer from anal sac impaction

Description

The most common disease of the anal sacs where the sac becomes impacted by a viscous, grey-brown secretion. It is caused by a failure of the sacs to empty normally during defecation, obesity, poor muscle tone and generalized seborrhea. The reatined secretion can encourage bacterial overgrowth and therefore infection and inflammation.

Diagnosis

History and Clinical Signs

See Anal Sac Disease - General

Treatment

Compression and expression of the sacs by either internal or external forces. The sacs are situated at the 4 and 8 c'clock positions. Internal expression is more effective and desired with external expression reserved for small dogs and cats where it is not possible to place a digit in the rectum. If the contents are too dry, then a softening agent or saline can be placed inside to aid clearance.

Prognosis

Some cases may require regular expression but generally the prognosis is excellent. Certain cases may become chronic or infected and sacculectoimy may need to be considered.

References

Hall, E.J, Simpson, J.W. and Williams, D.A. (2005) BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Gastroenterology (2nd Edition) BSAVA

Merck & Co (2008) The Merck Veterinary Manual