Dear Doctor,
I have had an uncomfortable itch in the anus for three months. The doctor said it was worms, but not even several rounds of de-worming have helped. I now feel a small pimple. What is the problem?
AKS

Dear AKS,
SEVERAL things can cause itching of the anus. The most commonly recognised are a type of intestinal worm called thread worms. They usually affect children.

Other causes include discharges or wetness around the anus (like sweat), allergic reactions to toilet paper or the dye in it, fungus or other infections around the anus, and other skin diseases.

Haemorrhoids (piles) and other conditions of the anus may also cause itching.

Since intestine worms have been ruled out, ask your doctor to look at the anus itself and look at the pimple. Most likely the doctor will be able to make a diagnosis and recommend treatment.