DRE

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

A Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) is a medical procedure in which a healthcare provider inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to examine the lower rectum, pelvis, and lower belly. This examination is commonly used to check for abnormalities in the prostate gland in men and to assess the health of the rectum and anus in both men and women.

Purpose[edit | edit source]

The primary purposes of a DRE include:

Procedure[edit | edit source]

During a DRE, the patient may be asked to lie on their side with knees drawn to the chest, bend over an examination table, or lie on their back with feet in stirrups. The healthcare provider will: 1. Wear a lubricated glove. 2. Gently insert a finger into the rectum. 3. Feel for any abnormalities or changes in the rectal wall, prostate gland, or surrounding tissues.

The procedure is usually brief and may cause mild discomfort but should not be painful.

Indications[edit | edit source]

A DRE may be indicated for:

Limitations[edit | edit source]

While a DRE can provide valuable information, it has limitations:

  • It may not detect all cases of prostate cancer or other conditions.
  • It is often used in conjunction with other tests, such as the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, for more accurate diagnosis.
  • The sensitivity and specificity of a DRE can vary depending on the examiner's experience and the patient's anatomy.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

Categories[edit | edit source]


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD