blood present

Last reviewed 01/2018

The presence of blood suggests a colonic lesion such as inflammatory bowel disease or carcinoma. Consider causes of persistent traveller's diarrhoea if a history of travel abroad.

The following investigations should clarify the picture:

  • stool culture and microscopy
  • sigmoidoscopy and rectal biopsy

If necessary then:

  • barium enema and/or colonoscopy with colonic biopsy