Common infectious causes of proctocolitis include Chlamydia trachomatis, LGV (Lymphogranuloma Venereum), Neisseria gonorrhoeae, HSV, and Campylobacter species.
They may instead develop proctitis, inflammation limited to the rectum (the distal 10–12 cm) that may be associated with anorectal pain, tenesmus, and rectal discharge, or proctocolitis, inflammation of the colonic mucosa extending to 12 cm above the anus and associated with symptoms of proctitis plus diarrhea or abdominal cramps.