Hematochezia

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Hematochezia

Hematochezia (/ˌhɛmətoʊˈkiːziə/; from the Greek words haima meaning "blood" and chezein meaning "to defecate") is the passage of fresh, bright red blood through the anus, usually in or with stools.

Definition

Hematochezia is a symptom of a number of gastrointestinal disorders such as colitis, diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures. It is characterized by the presence of bright red, fresh blood in the feces. This is in contrast to melena, which is the passage of dark, tarry stools, often due to upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Causes

Hematochezia is most commonly caused by colorectal cancer, anal fissures, diverticular disease, colitis, and hemorrhoids. Less common causes include gastrointestinal bleeding from the upper tract, ischemic colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and infectious colitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hematochezia involves a detailed patient history, physical examination, and a series of diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and barium enema. In some cases, CT scan or MRI may also be used.

Treatment

Treatment for hematochezia depends on the underlying cause. It may involve medications, dietary changes, or in severe cases, surgery. Patients with hematochezia should seek immediate medical attention to prevent complications such as anemia or shock due to loss of blood.

See also

External links

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