What are the referral criteria for a patient with rectal bleeding to a specialist?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025Updated: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Refer adults with unexplained rectal bleeding using a suspected cancer pathway referral for an appointment within 2 weeks .

Offer quantitative faecal immunochemical testing (FIT) to guide referral in adults with rectal bleeding and additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, or in those aged 50 and over with unexplained rectal bleeding .

Consider a suspected cancer pathway referral for a rectal mass or unexplained anal ulceration or anal mass .

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