Friday, May 24, 2013

Sigmoidoscopy

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Flexible sigmoidoscopy; Sigmoidoscopy - flexible; Proctoscopy; Proctosigmoidoscopy; Rigid sigmoidoscopy


Normal Values

Normal findings show that the lining of the sigmoid colon, rectal mucosa, rectum, and anus appear normal in color, texture, and size.


What abnormal results mean

Abnormal results can indicate:

  • Anal fissures
  • Anorectal abscess
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Cancer
  • Colorectal polyps
  • Diverticulosis (abnormal pouches on the lining of the intestines)
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Hirschsprung's disease
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Inflammation or infection (proctitis)

Review Date: 12/13/2010
Reviewed By: George F Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)