Case of the Month 1: Presentation

26 y/o M no PMH presents to the ED with c/o 1 month rectal pain and bleeding. Has been having sharp rectal pain worsened with moving bowels for about 4 weeks. Occasionally passes streaks of bright red blood or a thin purulent discharge. Feels like he has had low-grade fevers at home. Pain occasionally is felt in lower part of his abdomen. Reports that stools are mildly loose.

ROS: Negative aside from above

PMH: None

PSH: None

Meds: None

All: NKDA

SH: No toxic habits, has 1 male sexual partner

Vitals – T 100.4F, HR 88, RR 12, BP 128/77

PE negative except for:

– Mild lower abdominal tenderness without rebound or guarding

– B/l tender inguinal LAD

– Pain with DRE, small amount of bright red blood and purulent mucous on glove

For all the marbles, answer these questions:

What is your differential diagnosis?  What would your workup entail?  How would you treat your suspected diagnoses?

The views expressed on this blog are the author's own and do not reflect the views of their employer. Please read our full disclaimer here. Any references to clinical cases refer to patients treated at a virtual hospital, Janus General Hospital.
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James Hassel

EM-IM Resident at SUNY Downstate/Kings County Hospital

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