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Solitary Rectal Ulcer Syndrome
Feeling pain, bleeding, or difficulty with bowel movements? Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome is a rare, noncancerous condition causing rectal sores and discomfort. Under Dr. Scott's expert care at GastroDoxs in Houston, you'll receive personalized diagnosis, effective treatments, and compassionate support.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Straining during bowel movements
Chronic constipation or diarrhea
Rectal prolapse (rectum slipping out of place)
Overuse of laxatives
Pelvic floor dysfunction
Signs and Symptoms
Bright red blood or mucus from the rectum
Pain or pressure during or after bowel movements
Strong urge to go with little or no relief
Feeling of something stuck in the rectum
Fullness or bloating in the lower abdomen
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Solitary Rectal Ulcer Syndrome
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
Dr. Scott starts by reviewing your symptoms, including rectal bleeding, straining during bowel movements, mucus in the stool, and a constant urge to pass stool. He also discusses any history of constipation, use of enemas, or manual evacuation. A focused rectal exam helps detect tenderness, abnormal masses, or signs of rectal prolapse.
Laboratory Tests
Basic lab tests help rule out other causes and check for complications:
Complete Blood Count (CBC) � to detect anemia from chronic bleeding
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) � to check for underlying inflammation
Stool tests � to rule out infections or inflammatory bowel disease
Imaging and Endoscopy
Flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy is used to directly view the rectum. SRUS typically shows a single or multiple ulcers, or inflamed areas in the rectal lining.
Biopsies are taken to confirm the diagnosis, showing characteristic changes in the rectal tissue.
Pelvic MRI or defecography may be used to assess rectal prolapse or abnormal pelvic floor movement.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
In complex or persistent cases, Dr. Scott may recommend:
Anorectal manometry to evaluate rectal and anal sphincter function
Defecography (MRI or contrast X-ray) to assess how the rectum behaves during bowel movements
Gastrointestinal motility testing if overlapping conditions like constipation or outlet obstruction are suspected
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for solitary rectal ulcer syndrome.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Add more fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Avoid straining or sitting too long on the toilet
Incorporate gentle pelvic floor exercises or biofeedback therapy
2. Medications
Stool softeners or fiber supplements to ease bowel movements
Anti-inflammatory creams or enemas to promote ulcer healing
Mild pain relievers as needed (avoiding strong opioids)
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Biofeedback therapy to retrain and relax pelvic floor muscles
Endoscopic treatments to remove or treat ulcer tissue
Surgical options (such as rectopexy) in rare, severe cases
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until I feel better?
Most people improve in 4-6 weeks with the right care, including diet changes, pelvic floor exercises, and medications if needed.
Is this condition dangerous?
No. Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome isn't life-threatening, but it can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated.
Will I need surgery?
Surgery is rare. The majority of patients respond well to lifestyle changes, biofeedback, and medical therapies.
Can kids get this condition?
Yes, children can develop SRUS, though it's more common in adults with chronic constipation or pelvic floor dysfunction.
What is the ICD-10 code?
The ICD-10 code for solitary rectal ulcer syndrome is K62.6.
Will diet changes alone fix it?
Diet and hydration improvements help most patients, but some also require stool softeners, topical treatments, or pelvic floor therapy.
Do I need a colonoscopy?
Usually a sigmoidoscopy or anoscopy is sufficient to diagnose SRUS, but a full colonoscopy may be done to rule out other conditions.
