classification of haemorrhoids

Last reviewed 08/2023

Haemorrhoids may be either:

  • internal:
    • with an origin above the dentate line
    • are generally painless

  • external:
    • with an origin below the dentate line
    • are generally painfull

Haemorrhoids may be of four grades:

  • grade I:
    • do not prolapse out of the anal canal

  • grade II:
    • prolapse on defecation but reduce spontaneously

  • grade III:
    • require manual reduction

  • grade IV:
    • cannot be reduced