[Solitary ulcer of the rectum]

In line with the literature, the authors consider that solitary ulcer of the rectum, either isolated, multiple or histological, like suspended proctitis, inverted hamartomatous polyp, deep cystic colitis, is a complication of rectal prolapse, which usually shares the same clinical symptoms. Solitary ulcer of the rectum is generally discovered on proctoscopy and is due to the strain exerted on the rectal mucosa by 2 opposing forces:violent effort of defecation against an anal and/or perineal obstruction. The reduction of these pressure and counterpressure forces with age and progressive alteration of the pelvic floor accounts for the progression of acute lesions towards chronic or attenuated lesions or even complete resolution. The therapeutic strategy should therefore decrease trauma by facilitating defecation by a combination of hygiene and dietary advice and biofeedback retraining, and surgical reduction of the anal obstruction and prolapse and correction of any perineal insufficiency.