Symptomatology of Anorectal Diseases

Abstract

Patients suffering from anorectal disorders often complain of vague symptoms. A detailed description of these symptoms must therefore be obtained so that they may be associated with a precise anatomic location to provide a basis for appropriate examinations and a reliable diagnosis. Even without a specific association with a particular location, numerous symptoms nevertheless suggest a probable site of origin. The proctologic history is therefore of great importance (see Chapter 3). The circumstances in which a symptom appears, its localisation, its development, the appearance of secondary associated complaints, and their exact characteristics should all be ascertained in detail.