Radiation Induced Proctitis
What is Radiation-Induced Proctitis?
Radiation-induced proctitis is a complication of radiation therapy used to treat cancer. It is a type of colitis, a general term for inflammation of the large intestine. The radiation causes damage to the cells that line the colon and rectum, which can lead to a range of symptoms and complications.
Symptoms of Radiation-Induced Proctitis
The most common symptom of radiation-induced proctitis is rectal bleeding. Other symptoms can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Urgency to defecate
- Rectal burning or itching
- Unintended weight loss
Causes of Radiation-Induced Proctitis
Radiation-induced proctitis is caused by the radiation used to treat cancer. During radiation therapy, radiation is used to target and kill cancer cells. However, the radiation can also damage other cells in the body, including the cells that line the colon and rectum. This can lead to inflammation and the development of radiation-induced proctitis.
Risk Factors of Radiation-Induced Proctitis
The risk of developing radiation-induced proctitis depends on several factors, such as the type and dose of radiation delivered, the area being treated and the patient’s overall health.
- Type and dose of radiation: The type and dose of radiation used can affect the risk of developing radiation-induced proctitis. Higher doses of radiation increase the risk.
- Area being treated: The area being treated also affects the risk. If the rectum and colon are within the treatment area, then the risk increases.
- Overall health: A person’s overall health can also affect the risk. If a person has other health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease or a weakened immune system, they are more likely to develop radiation-induced proctitis.
Diagnosis of Radiation-Induced Proctitis
Radiation-induced proctitis is diagnosed through a medical history, physical exam and other tests. The doctor may perform:
- Blood tests to check for inflammation or infection
- Colonoscopy to look inside the colon and rectum and take tissue samples
- Endoscopic ultrasound to get a detailed view of the lining of the rectum and colon
Treatment of Radiation-Induced Proctitis
The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. The doctor may prescribe medications to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. These medications can include:
- 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) to reduce inflammation
- Steroid medications to reduce inflammation
- Antidiarrheal medications to reduce diarrhea
- Antibiotics to treat infections
Outlook
Most cases of radiation-induced proctitis go away if the radiation therapy is stopped. The outlook for people with radiation-induced proctitis depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause. People with more severe symptoms may need additional treatments, such as surgery, to help reduce inflammation and control symptoms.