Proctitis

Proctitis is defined as painful inflammation of the mucous
membrane at the lower end of the bowel; it often involves
the area around the anus.

There are many possible causes for this disease:

  • sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes and cytomegalovirus
  • chronic inflammatory bowel disease (e.g. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis)
  • intestinal infections such as salmonella or shigella, amebiasis
  • radiation of the pelvic area during the treatment of cancer
  • injuries


The symptoms vary widely, depending on the underlying condition. At the onset of the disease, the anal region may be particularly sensitive to touch, or there is a slight irritation of the rectum. As the disease progresses, pain, feelings of soreness, bleeding, purulent discharge and painful cramps may occur. Very frequent bowel movements like diarrhea are typical.

It may be hard to distinguish between hemorrhoidal disease and inflammation of the rectum on the basis of these symptoms, without a physical examination. To avoid complications and get the right treatment, check with your doctor to make sure you have the correct diagnosis.