Rectal (adjective)
Having to do with the rectum, the last 6 to 8 inches of the large intestine that serves to store solid waste until it leaves the body through the anus.
The word “rectal” comes from the Latin “rectus” meaning “straight” (which the human rectum is not).
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- Rectal (noun)
An informal term for a digital rectal exam (DRE) done to detect abnormalities that can be felt (palpated) from within the rectum. The doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum and feels for anything that is not normal. The digital rectal exam is an important screening test for the detection of tumors of […]
- Rectal bleeding
Anal fissure; Colon cancer; Crohn’s disease; Diverticulosis; Peptic ulcer; and Gastric cancer.
- Rectal cancer
A malignant tumor arising from the inner wall of the final part of the large intestine — the rectum. Although colon cancer and rectal cancer share many features, there are important differences between these two diseases including, especially, the tendency for rectal cancer — but not colon cancer — to recur locally. Local recurrence of […]
- Rectal exam, digital (DRE)
An exam done to detect abnormalities that can be felt (palpated) from within the rectum. The doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum and feels for anything that is not normal. The digital rectal exam is an important screening test for the detection of tumors of the rectum and prostate abnormalities, including benign […]
- Rectal incontinence
Inability to hold feces in the rectum due to failure of voluntary control over the anal sphincters with involuntary passage of feces and gas. Also called fecal incontinence.