Definition An inflammation of the rectum causing soreness, bleeding, and occasionally, a discharge of mucus or pus. Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors Proctitis is an inflammatory condition involving the anus and rectum. Sexually-transmitted diseases which can cause proctitis include gonorrhea , herpes, chlamydia , and lymphogranuloma venereum .
Amebiasis is another disease which can cause proctitis and can be transmitted by ano-oral sex.
Non-sexually transmitted infections causing proctitis are seen less frequently than STD proctitis. Autoimmune proctitis is associated with diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease . Proctitis may also be caused by physical agents including chemicals inserted into the rectum, medications and radiation. Radiation proctitis is only seen now in association with radiotherapy . Risk factors include high-risk sexual practices, homosexuality, and autoimmune disorders .