Rectal Bleeding

Question 1

What is painless bleeding at the end of defecation usually indicative of?

Answer 1

Haemorrhoids - bleeding is secondary

Question 2

At what age does rectal bleeding, regardless of additional history, pain, and likelihood of benign conditions such as haemorrhoids, warrant additional investigation?

Answer 2

Above 60

- any rectal bleeding in a patient above 60 y/o warrants an urgent investigation/referral to rule out rectal carcinoma

Question 3

What are the 3 other criteria for urgent investigation/referral in cases of rectal bleeding?

Answer 3

• Change in bowel habit lasting 6 weeks or more
• Unexplained iron deficiency anaemia
• Any palpable mass