Ulcerative Colitis And Crohn's Disease Often Affect The Rectum

Proctitis refers to inflammatory conditions affecting the rectum and is commonly associated with two primary diseases: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions are typically linked to a weakened immune system. While both involve inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, they differ in several key aspects. Ulcerative colitis generally affects continuous segments of the colon and rectum, whereas Crohn's disease often appears in a patchy, "skip lesion" pattern. Additionally, ulcerative colitis tends to involve only the innermost lining of the bowel, while Crohn's disease can penetrate deeper into the intestinal walls.

Common Symptoms Of Proctitis

The primary symptoms of proctitis include abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. Because chronic inflammation of the rectum carries a potential risk of malignancy, any newly observed growths identified during endoscopic examination should undergo prompt biopsy analysis. If there is evidence of cancerous transformation, surgical removal is usually recommended.

Complications Associated With Proctitis

Intestinal Perforation Risk

Chronic inflammation can weaken the rectal walls, potentially leading to localized bowel perforation. A sudden increase in abdominal pain may indicate that proctitis has led to intestinal perforation, which requires immediate surgical intervention. Emergency surgery remains the most effective treatment option for managing complications like bowel perforation caused by severe inflammation.