FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPIC FINDINGS IN EVALUATION OF BLEEDING PER RECTUM IN YOUNG PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Bleeding per rectum is a trivial symptom in young individuals. It may be overt or occult. Overt bleeding can be acute, massive or chronic. The aim of this study was to see flexible sigmoidoscopic findings in evaluation of bleeding per rectum in young patients. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted at Gastroenterology Unit of CMH, Malir, Karachi, from Jan 2015 to May 2016. All young patients, aged <50 years, referred for evaluation of bleeding per rectum, during the study period were included. Detailed history, physical examination and all baseline investigations were carried out. Flexible sigmoidoscopies were carried out after necessary preparation and informed consent. A total of 50 young patients with bleeding per rectum as only symptom underwent flexible sigmoidoscopy during study period. The sigmoidoscopic findings were documented and additional information was recorded. Results: A total of 50 subjects were included in the study. The mean age of patients was 30.8 years. They included 44 male and 6 female patients. The sigmoidoscopic findings included haemorrhoids 56%, rectal ulcers 22%, proctitis 12%, anal fissure 8%, and polyps 2%. No procedure related complication or growth was observed. Conclusion: Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a useful investigation to evaluate the cause of bleeding in patients presenting with bleeding per rectum. Most of young patients had benign aetiology of bleeding per rectum, with haemorrhoids being the commonest finding.      

Pak J Physiol 2016;12(4):24–6