Rectal Bleeding

Question 1

Outline some causes of rectal bleeding?

Answer 1

• haemorrhoids
• diverticular disease - from inflamed areas
• large bowel polyps or carcinoma
• angiodysplasia - a common cause in the elderly
• IBD
• Ulcers
• Radiation proctitis
• Ischaemic colitis
• Trauma

Question 2

Rectal bleeding associated with painful bowel movements?

Answer 2

• Anal fissure

- Inspection on PR examination

Question 3

Who should be referred for a suspected cancer pathway referral?

Answer 3

• 40 years and over with unexplained weight loss and abdominal pain, or
• 50 years and over with unexplained rectal bleeding, or..
• 60 years and over with: iron-deficiency anaemia or changes in their bowel habit, or…
• *TEST SHOWS OCCULT BLOOD IN THEIR FAECES