Medical Health Encyclopedia

Proctitis


InjuryDiseasesNutritionPoison
SymptomsSurgeryTestSpecial Topic
Rectum
Rectum
Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Alternative Names

Inflammation - rectum; Rectal inflammation


Treatment

Successful treatment of the underlying cause usually cures the problem. Proctitis caused by infection is treated with antibiotics. Corticosteroids or mesalamine suppositories may relieve symptoms of proctitis in those with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.


Expectations (prognosis)

The probable outcome is good with treatment.


Complications
  • Anal fistula
  • Anemia
  • Recto-vaginal fistula (women)
  • Severe bleeding

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of proctitis.



Review Date: 05/09/2009
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).




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