Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome

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When to seek medical advice

By Mayo Clinic staff

A common sign of rectal ulcers is rectal bleeding. But because rectal bleeding can occur for other reasons, see your doctor to rule out other conditions or diseases. Other causes of bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract include anal fissure, colorectal cancer and anal cancer.

If the onset of your signs or symptoms occurs along with a marked change in bowel habits or if you're passing bloody, black, tarry or maroon stools, consult your doctor without delay. These types of stools can signal more extensive bleeding elsewhere in your digestive tract.

Seek emergency care if you notice large amounts of rectal bleeding, lightheadedness, dizziness or faintness.

Because solitary rectal ulcer syndrome is rare, it's best diagnosed and treated by a specialist in disorders of the colon and rectum.

DS00694

March 14, 2008

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