A 60-year-old man presents for an annual physical examination. The examination is normal except for a palpable mass in the rectum on digital rectal examination. The patient denies any change in bowel habits and feels well. Rectal cancer is suspected. What is the next best step in the evaluation of this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A full colonoscopy with biopsy of the lesion is the next best step in the evaluation of a patient with a suspected rectal mass. This allows for direct visualization of the entire colon and rectum, identification of any additional lesions, and biopsy of the suspicious area for histopathological examination.

A 60-Year-Old Man Presents for an Annual Physical Examination