A 30-year-old man who has sex with men presents with a 1-week onset of anorectal pain, constipation, and a malodorous, purulent rectal discharge. He denies fever, chills, diarrhea, hematochezia, and other systemic symptoms. He reports having receptive anal intercourse with three different partners during the last four weeks and has inconsistently used condoms.
What are the appropriate initial steps for the work-up of this man’s symptoms?

Figure 1. Proctitis
This illustration shows the rectal region involved with proctitis.
Illustration: Cognition Studio, Inc. and David H. Spach, MD
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Question Last Updated
March 13th, 2025
March 13th, 2025
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