After the anal pap test, the clinician will perform a digital anal rectal exam by inserting a lubricated finger with a local anesthetic cream (lidocaine) into the anus to feel for any abnormalities including lumps, warty growths, ulcerations and/or masses that may be concerning for cancer. The outside anal area known as the perianus is also evaluated with the DARE.

This is the best and easiest way to detect any abnormal growths and/or masses in the anal area and can sometimes target where to look for areas of possible dysplasia and cancer during high resolution anoscopy (HRA).