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Digital Rectal Examination

Picture of digital rectal exam

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

A digital (finger) rectal examination checks for problems in organs or other structures in the pelvis and lower abdomen. During a digital rectal examination, your doctor puts a lubricated, gloved finger of one hand into the rectum and may use the other hand to press on the lower abdomen or pelvic area.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Last Revised September 27, 2010

Last Revised: September 27, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology

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