While Performing an Assessment of the Perianal Area of a Patient

Multiple Choice

While performing an assessment of the perianal area of a patient, the nurse notices that the pigmentation of the anus is darker than the surrounding skin, the anal opening is closed, and a skin sac that is shiny and blue is noted. The patient mentioned that he has had pain with bowel movements and has occasionally noted some spots of blood. What does this assessment and history most likely indicate?

A) Anal fistula
B) Pilonidal cyst
C) Rectal prolapse
D) Thrombosed hemorrhoid