What is the function of a digital rectal examination (DRE)?

The function of a digital rectal examination (DRE) primarily involves palpating the prostate gland to assess its size, shape, and texture. This examination is particularly important for men, as it can help detect abnormalities such as prostate enlargement or the presence of prostate cancer. During a DRE, a healthcare provider inserts a gloved finger into the rectum and can feel the prostate, which is located just in front of the rectal wall.

While the DRE may also provide some information about the rectum and can help identify issues related to bowel health, its main clinical purpose is related to the evaluation of the prostate gland. Other potential uses, such as checking for colon cancer, typically involve different screening methods, like colonoscopy or fecal tests, rather than relying solely on a DRE. Therefore, the primary function that aligns with the DRE is the assessment of the prostate gland.