Proctalgia fugax

Proctalgia fugax is a fairly common but little-known cause of rectal pain. It is a benign condition that has no known etiology. Symptoms consist of episodic, sudden, sharp pain in the anorectal area, usually lasting several seconds to several minutes. Diagnosis is based on a history that fits the classic picture, coupled with a normal physical examination. Several treatments have been tried and found anecdotally to be effective, although reassurance is the most useful therapeutic option.