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Cardiology7 papers

Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome

Last edited: 4/22/2026

Overview

Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome (SUS) is a rare disorder characterized by a solitary ulcer in the rectum, often presenting with hematochezia, rectal pain, and potential anemia 12.

Diagnosis

  • Endoscopic identification of a solitary or multiple rectal ulcers
  • Presence of characteristic histological changes in adjacent mucosa 2
  • Clinical symptoms may include hematochezia, rectal pain, and anemia 1
  • Management

  • First-line treatments: Not explicitly detailed in provided abstracts; conservative management often considered 2
  • Adjunctive treatments: Argon plasma coagulation (APC) shows promise for bleeding ulcers, with sessions spaced 30 days apart 1
  • Special Populations

  • Elderly: A case report indicates efficacy in a 64-year-old patient 1
  • Comorbidities: Management considerations for secondary anemia and pain management (analgesics) noted 1
  • Key Recommendations

  • Consider argon plasma coagulation (APC) as a therapeutic approach for bleeding solitary rectal ulcer syndrome, particularly when medical management fails (Evidence: Weak) 1
  • Endoscopic evaluation is crucial for diagnosis and monitoring response to treatment (Evidence: Expert opinion) 2
  • Manage secondary anemia and pain aggressively, potentially reducing reliance on analgesics post-treatment (Evidence: Weak) 1
  • References

    1 Stoppino V, Cuomo R, Tonti P, Gentile M, De Francesco V, Muscatiello N et al.. Argon plasma coagulation of hemorrhagic solitary rectal ulcer syndrome. Journal of clinical gastroenterology 2003. link 2 Madigan MR, Morson BC. Solitary ulcer of the rectum. Gut 1969. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Argon plasma coagulation of hemorrhagic solitary rectal ulcer syndrome.Stoppino V, Cuomo R, Tonti P, Gentile M, De Francesco V, Muscatiello N et al. Journal of clinical gastroenterology (2003)
    2. [2]
      Solitary ulcer of the rectum.Madigan MR, Morson BC Gut (1969)

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