Proctalgia Fugax

Abstract

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Proctalgia fugax is a functional anorectal disorder characterized by sudden, sharp, and recurrent anal pain lasting seconds to minutes, often occurring at night and disrupting sleep. Despite its high prevalence, it is underreported, particularly due to the short duration and infrequency of episodes. The exact cause remains unclear, but potential mechanisms include anal sphincter spasms, pudendal nerve compression, and psychological factors. Diagnosis is made by excluding other conditions, as there is no specific test. Treatment options vary depending on severity, ranging from hygienic measures and topical medications to more advanced interventions such as botulinum toxin injections, sphincterotomy, or neuromodulation. Physiotherapy, especially biofeedback and pelvic floor relaxation techniques, plays a promising role in symptom management, although more research is needed to establish standardized protocols.