Proctalgia fugax: a clinical enigma

Proctalgia fugax is a benign condition characterized by paroxysms of anorectal pain in the absence of identifiable anorectal lesions. The cause is unknown but may involve spasm of smooth or striated muscle. Surveys indicate the disorder is common in the general population, with only a minority of victims seeking medical attention. There is no universally accepted treatment for proctalgia fugax. The diagnosis is established by the typical history and the exclusion of other pelvic and anorectal abnormality.