Digital Rectal Examination

Digital rectal exam

A digital (finger) rectal examination checks for problems in organs or other structures in the pelvis and lower abdomen. During a digital rectal examination, your doctor puts a lubricated, gloved finger of one hand into the rectum and may use the other hand to press on the lower abdomen or pelvic area.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Jimmy Ruiz, MD - Hematology, Oncology

Current as ofMay 3, 2017

Current as of: May 3, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Jimmy Ruiz, MD - Hematology, Oncology