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    Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

    Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)



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    A digital (finger) rectal examination is done to check for problems of organs or other structures in the pelvis and lower belly. During the examination, the doctor gently puts a lubricated, gloved finger of one hand into the Reference rectum Opens New Window.

    Digital rectal exam

    Normal:

    No problems such as organ enlargements or growths are felt.

    Abnormal:

    Problems such as organ enlargements or growths are felt.

    For men, the prostate gland may be enlarged. This may mean Reference benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) Opens New Window or inflammation of the prostate gland (Reference prostatitis Opens New Window). Tumors are felt.

    For women, growths such as tumors of the Reference cervix Opens New Window, uterus, or Reference ovaries Opens New Window are felt.

    Growths such as Reference hemorrhoids Opens New Window, polyps, tumors, or Reference abscesses Opens New Window may be found in the lower rectum. Breaks in the skin around the anus (Reference anal fissures Opens New Window) may be found. Problems of the bladder may also be felt.



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference September 26, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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