Double-contrast enema examination for detection of rectal carcinoma.

The role of the double-contrast enema examination (DCE) in the detection of rectal carcinoma was evaluated and compared to the proctoscopic examination. Records of 90 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of rectal carcinoma were reviewed. Sixty-six patients had a preoperative DCE. The correct diagnosis was either made or suggested in 91% of these patients. The proctoscopic examination was diagnostic in 86%. The causes of radiologic and proctoscopic error were evaluated. Findings confirm that the DCE is an accurate method for the diagnosis of rectal carcinoma. Careful examination of the rectum should be incorporated in all radiologic studies of the colon since a normal proctoscopic examination does not exclude the possibility of rectal carcinoma.