Digital Rectal Exam
DRE
Description
"Digital Rectal Exam" (DRE) test is a quick procedure used to assess the rectum, anus, and prostate. A doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to check for lumps, swelling, or tenderness. It’s commonly used to screen for prostate conditions, detect hemorrhoids, or evaluate unexplained pelvic discomfort. The results help doctors decide whether further testing, imaging, or treatment is needed. Regular DREs support early detection and ongoing monitoring of rectal and prostate health.
Test Category
GI Tract Function
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
No biological sample is needed for this test.
Units
Not Applicable
Procedure Category
Insert
Test Group
Endoscopic Procedure Group
Test Group Description
Endoscopic Procedure Group: This group encompasses a range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and light at its tip. These procedures allow healthcare providers to visualize internal organs and tissues, such as the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, and urinary tract.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Result: Negative: No abnormalities detected.
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Result: Negative: No abnormalities detected.
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Abscess (Pus-filled pocket, often caused by bacterial infection)
Anal fissures (Tears or cracks in the lining of the anal canal)
Anal fistula (Abnormal passageway between the anus and surrounding skin or organs)
Enlarged prostate (Abnormal growth of the prostate gland, often causing urinary symptoms)
External or internal hemorrhoids (Swol...
Key Reasons For Testing
Prostate Health: Screens for prostate abnormalities like enlargement, nodules, or irregularities indicating BPH, prostatitis, or cancer.
Prostate Cancer Detection: Identifies suspicious prostate areas for further investigation when combined with PSA tests.
Urinary Symptoms: Evaluates underlying causes like prostate enlargement in men with difficulty urinating.
Treatment Monitoring: Tracks treatment responses in prostate conditions to guide management.
Rectal Health: Examines for hemorrhoids, polyps, or cancers.
Anal Tone: Assesses sphincter tone for conditions like fecal incontinence or prolapse.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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