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What is a common presenting symptom of proctitis?

  1. Rectal itching

  2. Painful lesions

  3. Flank pain

  4. Excessive urination

The correct answer is: Rectal itching

Rectal itching is a common presenting symptom of proctitis, which is inflammation of the lining of the rectum. This condition can be caused by various factors, such as infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, or radiation therapy. Patients often experience discomfort that can manifest as itching, which may be due to irritation of the sensitive rectal tissues or the presence of mucus and discharge. In contrast, painful lesions may indicate other conditions, such as infections or specific skin disorders, rather than being a typical symptom of proctitis. Flank pain is more associated with renal issues or urological problems and does not directly relate to rectal inflammation. Excessive urination would suggest urinary tract involvement rather than proctitis. Therefore, rectal itching stands out as a clear and relevant symptom linked to the condition.