Which term describes dilated veins in the anorectal region?

Which term describes dilated veins in the anorectal region?

• A. Spider veins
• B. Varicose veins
• C. Caput Medusa
• D. Hemorrhoids

Answer: (D)

Dilation of the venous cushions in the anorectal region is called hemorrhoids. These are the engorged veins that form the vascular cushions supporting the anal canal, and they can become symptomatic when enlarged. Internal hemorrhoids lie above the dentate line and are typically painless, often presenting with rectal bleeding, while external hemorrhoids below the dentate line are usually painful due to somatic innervation. The other terms describe different venous dilations: spider veins are superficial skin telangiectasias, varicose veins are usually in the legs, and Caput Medusae refers to abdominal varices from portal hypertension.

Dilation of the venous cushions in the anorectal region is called hemorrhoids. These are the engorged veins that form the vascular cushions supporting the anal canal, and they can become symptomatic when enlarged. Internal hemorrhoids lie above the dentate line and are typically painless, often presenting with rectal bleeding, while external hemorrhoids below the dentate line are usually painful due to somatic innervation. The other terms describe different venous dilations: spider veins are superficial skin telangiectasias, varicose veins are usually in the legs, and Caput Medusae refers to abdominal varices from portal hypertension.