advice on follow-up for rectal bleeding

Hi,

Please could you offer me some advice on my situation? 6 years ago I noticed a streak of bright red blood on the surface of my stool (I was 40 at the time). I didn't notice it again for about 8 months or so, at which time I went to see my doctor. He said the most likely cause - based on the blood being brigght red and on the surface of the stool - was internal haemorrhoids. I also had a flexible sigmoidoscopy carried out which showed mild internal haemorrhoids and the specialist surgeon also took a colon tissue sample which came back ok.

Five years on, I am still getting the occasional bout of rectal bleeding - red and on the stool surface. I went to see my doctor again yesterday who said not to worry but that it is worth keeping an eye on, so has referred me on to hospital.

My main concern and source of anxiety is as I'm still have occasional bleeding whether the flexible sigmoidoscopy would have picked everything up? With the bleeding still being on the surface of the stool, if this was caused by a tumour 5 years ago, would it have progressed further and would I have other symptoms by now?

Thank you

GBUK

[Kevin Pho, MD]

No, the flexible sigmoidoscopy is not the most comprehensive test for colon cancer, as it only looks at one-third of the colon.

If the symptoms continue, I would pursue a colonoscopy.  This is the most comprehensive test, and can go further than the flexible sigmoidoscopy to look for potential masses.  

If the tumor progresses, you likely would have other symptoms, such as fatigue caused by iron deficiency anemia.  

The colonoscopy is the next logical step at this point.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd