The condition is diagnosed by its symptoms. If episodes are frequent, relaxation training and cognitive behavior therapy may be considered, but their effectiveness has not been established. Drugs have not shown consistent benefit. Rectal Prolapse and Procidentia Protrusion of part of the rectum through the anus. Mucosal prolapse involves only the mucosal layer of the rectum.
Complete prolapse involves all layers.
In procidentia, the most severe form, several inches of rectum may pass through the anus. Prolapse is common among elderly persons, affecting women more than men. The underlying defect is a long, lax sigmoidorectal mesentery that cannot keep the rectum in position. The main symptom is protrusion of mucous membrane or the rectum, felt as an anal mass by the patient. Initially, manual reduction is possible, but later, protrusion occurs when the patient stands, causing pain and discharge of mucus and blood from the inflamed mucosa.