An anoscopy is a procedure in which a small lighted tube is inserted into the anus. This allows a doctor to see the inside of the anus and anal canal.
An anoscopy may be ordered for persons who have pain in the rectum or anus. It can be ordered if the healthcare professional suspects hemorrhoids or other problems in the anus. The test may also be done to check for anal fissures, which are abnormal openings between the anus and the skin.
The doctor first does a digital rectal exam. This is done by inserting a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum.
The anoscope is a tube-shaped optical device designed just for this test. It has a light that lets the doctor see inside the anal canal. If an abnormal area is seen, a small piece of tissue known as a biopsy can be removed for testing in the laboratory.
The healthcare professional will provide specific instructions about how to prepare for this test.
An anoscopy can detect any unhealthy features in the shape, color, or size of the anus, such as: anal abscesses, which are pockets of pus around the anuscancer of the anus or the lower part of the rectumcolorectal polypshemorrhoidssources of anal or rectal bleeding
