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A digital rectal exam is an examination of the lower rectum. The doctor uses a gloved, lubricated finger to check for abnormalities.
Alternative NamesDRE
How the test is performedThe doctor will first examine the outside of the anus for hemorrhoids or fissures. Then the doctor will put on a latex glove and insert a lubricated finger into the rectum. In female patients, this exam may be done together with a pelvic exam.
How to prepare for the testThe doctor will ask you to try to relax before the test and to take a deep breath during the actual insertion of the finger into the rectum.
How the test will feelYou may feel mild discomfort during this test.
Why the test is performedThis test is performed for various reasons, but is most often done as part of a routine yearly physical examination in both men and women.
In men, the test is used to examine the prostate, looking for abnormal enlargement or other signs of prostate cancer.
In women, a digital rectal exam may be performed during a routine gynecologic examination.
A digital rectal exam is also done to collect stool for testing for fecal occult (hidden) blood as part of screening for colorectal cancer.
This procedure is also done before other tests, such as a colonoscopy, to make sure nothing is blocking the rectum before inserting an instrument.
Normal ValuesThe digital rectal exam is usually treated as an initial screening examination. It is usually done together with other tests to rule out abnormalities.
A "normal" finding is when the doctor does not feel any abnormalities -- but this test does NOT completely rule out potential problems.
What abnormal results meanAny bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract calls for emergency care. Patients should be evaluated in the emergency department for gastrointestinal bleeding (hemorrhage).
If tests reveal occult (hidden) blood, but there is no obvious hemorrhaging (bleeding), the patient will undergo blood tests for anemia, followed by colonoscopy.
A male patient with an enlarged or nodular prostate will undergo a blood test of prostate specific antigen (PSA test), and then possibly a prostate ultrasound and biopsy after referral to a urologist.
What the risks areThe exam itself generally carries no risk, but it is possible to have a normal exam and still have an occult (unidentified/hidden) source of bleeding.
ReferencesSeidel HM, Ball JW, Dains JE, Benedict GW.Mosby's Guide to Physical Examination. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: C.V. Mosby; 2006.
What else can I help you with?
What is the icd 10 pcs code for digital rectal exam?
What is the code for digital rectal exam
What is the cpt code for Digital Rectal Exam?
88142
Can you be too fat for a digital rectal exam?
Yes, a digital rectal exam is done using a CT scanner. Without even going into how much radiation a large patient will recieve, there is a weight limit on the table and the hole that the person has to fit through is only so big. ------------------------------------------ A digtal rectal exam has nothing to do with a CT scanner. Digital, in this case, refers to the finger (a digit). It is a rectal exam performed with the examiner's finger. If the patient is particularly heavy, it certainly makes it more difficult to perform a digital rectal exam effectively, but it can still be done.
What does the medical abbreviation DRE mean?
DRE means digital rectal exam.
What is the digital rectal exam for colon cancer?
digital rectal exam (DRE). The DRE includes manual examination of the rectum, anus, and the prostate. During this examination, the physician examines the anus and the surrounding skin for hemorrhoids, abscesses, and other irregularities.
What does a doctor stick up your butt?
They will stick their finger and a camera in while doing a digital rectal exam or prostate exam
Palpation of the prostate gland through the rectum?
Palpation of the prostate gland through the rectum is a physical examination technique known as digital rectal exam (DRE). It involves a healthcare provider inserting a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland for any abnormalities such as nodules, enlargement, or tenderness. DRE is commonly used to screen for prostate cancer and assess prostate health.
When you have a pap smear do you also have to have a rectal exam to?
No you dont have a rectal exam with it, at least I have never.... Rectal exams are done by different doctors.
How can prostatebe detected?
The prostate gland is palpable through the anterior wall of the rectum. A digital rectal exam is the term for this type of examination.
What is the position for rectal exam?
Sims' position
Does a gynecologist do a rectal exam too?
Yes
What are the causes of rectal cancer and the signs one should get a rectal exam?
The cause of rectal cancer are not all known. However, you should get a rectal exam if you experience unusual tiredness, nasuea, bloody stools, abdominal cramps, and a change in bowel habits. These may be signs of rectal cancer.
