Colonoscopy appropriateness: Really needed or a waste of time?

Table 4 Clinical criteria for prompt colonoscopy referral (2 wk) according to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence in the United Kingdom[44]

Patients ≥ 40 yr with rectal bleeding and change of bowel habit persisting ≥ 6 wk

Patients ≥ 60 yr with rectal bleeding persisting ≥ 6 wk without a change in bowel habit and without anal symptoms

Patients ≥ 60 yr with a change of bowel habit persisting ≥ 6 wk without rectal bleeding

Patients with right lower abdominal mass

Patients with palpable rectal mass

Patients with unexplained iron deficiency anemia ( ≤ 11 g/100 mL in men and ≤ 10 g/100 mL in women)