Table 1 Clinical data that should be relayed to the specialist.

Duration of symptoms

History of change in bowel habit

History of rectal bleeding

History of tenesmus

History of passing mucous per rectum

History of abdominal pain

History of weight loss or patient's weight.

History of peri-anal symptoms e.g. itch or pain

Rectal mass or results of rectal examination

Abdominal mass or results of abdominal examination

Iron deficiency anaemia or results of full blood count

History of inflammatory bowel disease

Relevant family history

History of lower bowel investigations or existing colorectal conditions

General practitioner's opinion as to likely diagnosis