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Colonoscopic evaluation of rectal bleeding in young adults
J A Acosta1, T K Fournier, C O Knutson
1Department of General Surgery, Naval Medical Center, San Diego, CA 92134-5000.
The American Surgeon
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Colonoscopy is valuable for young adults experiencing rectal bleeding, with 21% showing significant findings like polyps or colitis. This diagnostic tool is justified in younger populations presenting with blood loss per rectum.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Limited research exists on colonoscopy's diagnostic yield in younger adults with rectal bleeding.
- Previous studies focused primarily on older patient populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic yield of colonoscopy in patients aged 40 or younger presenting with rectal bleeding.
- To determine the significance of findings in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 5924 colonoscopic examinations.
- Selection of 280 patients aged 40 or younger with rectal bleeding as the sole indication.
- Analysis of findings, including polyps, colitis, diverticular disease, angiodysplasia, and adenocarcinoma.
Main Results:
- Significant findings were identified in 21% of patients (59 out of 280).
- Polyps were found in 8.9%, colitis in 8.6%, diverticular disease in 2.1%, and angiodysplastic lesions in 1.1%.
- Adenocarcinoma was diagnosed in one patient (0.03%).
Conclusions:
- Colonoscopy is a justified diagnostic procedure for younger adults experiencing rectal bleeding.
- Significant colorectal pathology can be present in up to 21% of patients in this age group.