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| Definition: | An inflammation of the rectum causing discomfort, bleeding, and occasionally, a discharge of mucus or pus.
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| Alternative Names: | Inflammation - rectum; Rectal inflammation
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: | Proctitis is an inflammatory condition involving the anus and rectum. There are many causes of proctitis but they can be broken down into several small groups:- sexually-transmitted disease
- non-sexually transmitted infection
- autoimmune disease
- noxious agents
Sexual disease related proctitis occurs with high frequency among homosexual men and women who engage in anal intercourse. Sexually-transmitted diseases which can cause proctitis include gonorrhea, herpes, chlamydia, and lymphogranuloma venereum. Amebiasis is another disease which can cause proctitis and can be transmitted by ano-oral sex.
Non-sexually transmitted infections causing proctitis are seen less frequently than STD proctitis. The classical example of non-sexually transmitted infection occurs in children and the proctitis is caused by beta-hemolytic streptococcus, the same organism which causes strep throat. Autoimmune proctitis is associated with diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
Proctitis may also be caused by physical agents including chemicals inserted into the rectum, medications and radiation. Radiation proctitis is seen in association with radiotherapy as part of cancer treatment.
Risk factors include high-risk sexual practices, homosexuality, and autoimmune disorders.
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Review Date: 12/3/2001
Reviewed By: Andrew J. Muir, M.D. M.H.S., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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