Anoscopy

Definition

Anoscopy is a method to look at the:

Anus
Anal canal
Lower rectum

Alternative Names

Anal fissures - anoscopy; Anal polyps - anoscopy; Foreign object in the anus - anoscopy; Hemorrhoids - anoscopy; Anal warts - anoscopy

How the Test is Performed

The procedure is usually done in a doctor's office.

A digital rectal exam is done first. Then, a lubricated instrument called an anoscope is placed a few inches or centimeters into the rectum. You will feel some discomfort when this is done.

The anoscope has a light on the end, so your health care provider can see the entire area. A sample for biopsy can be taken, if needed.

How to Prepare for the Test

Often, there is no preparation needed. Or, you may receive a laxative, enema, or other preparation to empty your bowel. You should empty your bladder before the procedure.

How the Test will Feel

There will be some discomfort during the procedure. You may feel the need to have a bowel movement. You may feel a pinch when a biopsy is taken.

You can usually return to normal activities after the procedure.

Why the Test is Performed

This test may be used to determine whether you have:

Anal fissures (small split or tear in the lining of the anus)
Anal polyps (growth on the lining of the anus)
Foreign object in the anus
Hemorrhoids (swollen veins in the anus)
Infection
Inflammation
Tumors

Normal Results

The anal canal appears normal in size, color, and tone. There is no sign of:

Bleeding
Polyps
Hemorrhoids
Other abnormal tissue

What Abnormal Results Mean

Abnormal results may include:

Abscess (collection of pus in the anus)
Fissures
Foreign object in the anus
Hemorrhoids
Infection
Inflammation
Polyps (non-cancerous or cancerous)
Tumors

Risks

There are few risks. If a biopsy is needed, there is a slight risk for bleeding and mild pain.

Gallery

Rectal biopsy can be used to determine the cause of blood, mucus, or pus in the stool. Rectal biopsy can also confirm findings of another test or x-rays, or take a biopsy of a growth found in the colon.

References

Beard JM, Osborn J. Common office procedures. In: Rakel RE, Rakel DP, eds. Textbook of Family Medicine. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 28.

Downs JM, Kudlow B. Anal diseases. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 129.

Reynolds PL, Wilkins T. Anoscopy. In: Fowler GC, ed. Pfenninger and Fowler's Procedures for Primary Care. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 83.

Last reviewed August 22, 2022 by Debra G. Wechter, MD, FACS, General Surgery Practice Specializing in Breast Cancer, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team..

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