Topic Info - BotMed Application

TopicName

Chronic GI (rectal) bleeding

ClinicalTests

CBC;
Fecal occult blood;
AST/ALT/bilirubin/Alk Phos;
PTT/INR;
CEA;
Calprotectin (IBS>50, IBD>150);

ImagingStudies

Colonoscopy;
If no source of bleeding found: Barium contrast study;

PhysicalExams

Vital signs ± orthostatics; abdominal and rectal exams.

Comment

Melena vs. bright red blood; amount, duration; associated symptoms (constitutional, abdominal or rectal pain, tenesmus, constipation/diarrhea); menstrual cycle; trauma; history of similar symptoms; prior colonoscopy; medications (especially blood thinners); history of easy bleeding or atherosclerotic vascular disease, renal disease, aortic valve disease, liver disease, alcoholism, or abdominal aortic aneurysm repair; family history of colon cancer.

WebLink

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/1101/p977.html | https://www.aafp.org/afp/2005/0401/p1339.html