Anal Itching (Pruritus Ani): Examination

A comprehensive clinical examination is the basis for selecting further diagnostic steps:

• General physical examination – including blood pressure, pulse, body weight, height; furthermore:
  • Inspection (viewing).
    • Skin, mucous membranes and sclerae (white part of the eye).
    • Anal region/anal canal [scars?, mariscae?, prolapsing (prolapsing) hemorrhoids?, anal prolapse (“prolapse” of the anus, or anal mucosa in front of the sphincter)?, pelvic floor subsidence?; gaping anal sphincter (anal sphincter)?]
  • Digital rectal examination (DRU): examination of the rectum (rectum) and adjacent organs with a finger by palpation (palpation): assessment of the prostate in size, shape and consistency.
• Cancer screening
• Dermatological examination – if STDs, perianal warts (condylomata acuminata; synonyms: genital warts, wet warts and genital warts) etc. are suspected.