| Theme | Gastrointestinal Disease Due to Blood Flow Damage | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Radiation Colitis | |
| Publish Date | 2019/01 | |
| Author | Yohei Ikenoyama | Division of Gastroenterology, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research |
| Author | Akiko Chino | Division of Gastroenterology, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research |
| Author | Masahiro Igarashi | Division of Gastroenterology, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research |
| Author | Daisuke Ide | Division of Gastroenterology, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research |
| Author | Shoichi Saito | Division of Gastroenterology, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research |
| [ Summary ] | Radiotherapy is often the first-line treatment for pelvic malignancies including prostate and uterine cancer. Radiation-induced colitis is an adverse effect observed in the intestinal tract adjoining the areas receiving irradiation. Various irradiation methods are used depending upon the target disease, and all methods are known to induce radiation colitis, although there is a difference in frequency. Based on its pathogenesis, radiation enterocolitis is categorized into acute injury that occurs within several weeks of irradiation and late injury that develops several months after radiotherapy. The disease state and severity need to be considered for optimal treatment. Radiation causes acute and chronic adverse effects on the small and large intestines including hemorrhagic sigmoid proctitis, ulcer, stenosis, and fistula formation. The presence of blood in stools is the most common symptom, and argon plasma coagulation is an easy, safe, and effective treatment option. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a promising approach for radiation-induced ulcers. Surgery may effectively treat radiation-induced fistulas and stenosis. However, surgical indications should be carefully assessed because surgery leads to a high morbidity rate. |
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