A 52-year-old presents with bleeding from the rectum. This condition is referred to as:
A) melena.
B) occult bleeding.
C) hematochezia.
D) hematemesis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hematochezia refers to the passage of fresh, bright red blood from the rectum. Melena refers to the passage of dark, tarry stools due to upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Occult bleeding refers to the presence of small amounts of blood in stool that is not visible to the naked eye. Hematemesis refers to vomiting blood.

A 52-Year-Old Presents with Bleeding from the Rectum