A Comprehensive Review of Portosystemic Collaterals in Cirrhosis: Historical Aspects, Anatomy, and Classifications

Table 3

Differentiating features on endoscopy between hemorrhoids and rectal varices.

Rectal varices	Hemorrhoids
Extend superior to levator ani	Extension above levator ani not seen
Usually originate more than 4 cm above anal verge, distinct from hemorrhoids	Usually originated less than 4 cm below level of anal verge
Not contiguous with anal column or pectinate line	Maybe contiguous
Dilated, tortuous, submucosal vein, 3 to 6 mm in diameter and dark blue in color	Less dilated, nontortuous, paler, smaller in size
Do not prolapse into the proctoscope during examination	Prolapse into proctoscope commonly seen with higher grade