Investigation of rectal bleeding in children

Rectal bleeding is a common symptom in children, however the range of diagnoses is large and varied, with most being non-life threatening. Occasionally, however, this symptom is a sign of major morbidity, which, if not diagnosed urgently, may lead to either death or long-term morbidity. Major factors in respect of diagnosis are that of age and mode of presentation. This review will look at the surgical differential diagnoses based on age, ranging from prematurity to teenager, presentation and the investigations that are appropriate. The article will then finish with an algorithm to help direct the clinician towards the appropriate investigation.