The barium enema appearances in solitary rectal ulcer syndrome

Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome is a benign condition of unknown aetiology, usually found in young adults. The main clinical complaint is of rectal bleeding, often with change in bowel habit. The radiological findings in 17 patients with histologically proven solitary rectal ulcer syndrome, seen at the General Infirmary at Leeds over an 8-year period, are presented. Ulceration, polypoid lesion, stricture, granularity or a normal rectal mucosa may all be found on barium enema. The histological findings and pathogenesis of the condition are discussed.