Glossary

C

Colon and Rectal Cancer – cancers of the colon and rectal regions.

Colorectal Surgeon – formal term for a proctologist.

Condyloma (warts) – Warts are an overgrowth of tissue caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). The virus lives in your cells and can either remain dormant or activate the cell to create warts.

 

F

Fissure-in-ano – small tear in the lining of the anus.

Fissures – Small tears in the anal lining.

Fistula-in-ano – infected tunnel between the skin and anus.

H

Hematochezia – Maroon colored stool

Hemorrhoids – Swollen veins that can occur internally and externally around the anus.

H

Hematochezia – Maroon colored stool

Hemorrhoids – Swollen veins that can occur internally and externally around the anus.

M

Melena – black colored stool

N

Necrosis – when hemorrhoids become trapped outside the anus and the hemorrhoid tissue starts to die.

 

P

Pilonidal Cysts – abnormal skin growth located at the tailbone that contains hair and skin.

Polyps – growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.

Proctitis – inflammation of the rectum.

Proctologist – a surgeon who specializes in the diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. Proctologists are also known as Colorectal Surgeons.

Pruritus Ani – anal itching.

 

R

Rectal Prolapse – a condition when the rectum slips out through the anal opening.

 

T

Thrombosis – when a painful anal lump occurs quickly, usually a clot of blood within the hemorrhoid. Will rupture and bleed.