Hematochezia

Hematochezia is a medical term that refers to the passage of fresh blood through the anus, usually in or with stools. This is in contrast to melena, which is the passage of old, tarry black, digested blood. Hematochezia is commonly associated with lower gastrointestinal bleeding, but may also occur from a brisk upper gastrointestinal bleed.

Causes

The causes of hematochezia are numerous and varied. They include:

• Diverticular disease
• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures
• Colorectal cancer
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Angiodysplasia
• Ischemic colitis

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of hematochezia is typically made through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing. This may include:

• Colonoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Upper endoscopy
• Capsule endoscopy
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Treatment

The treatment of hematochezia depends on the underlying cause. This may include:

• Medication
• Surgery
• Endoscopic therapy
• Radiologic intervention

See also

• Melena
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Lower gastrointestinal bleeding
• Upper gastrointestinal bleeding

References

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