Radiation proctitis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Radiation proctitis
Radiation proctitis as seen during endoscopy
Synonyms	Radiation proctopathy
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Rectal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal pain, tenesmus
Complications	Strictures, fistulas, ulcers
Onset	Weeks to years after radiation therapy
Duration	Can be chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Radiation therapy to the pelvis
Risks	Higher doses of radiation, concurrent chemotherapy
Diagnosis	Endoscopy, biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Inflammatory bowel disease, infectious colitis, ischemic colitis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Endoscopic therapy, medications, surgery
Medication	Sucralfate, steroids, 5-aminosalicylic acid
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common in patients receiving pelvic radiation
Deaths	N/A

Radiation proctitis is a medical condition that involves inflammation and damage to the lower parts of the colon after exposure to x-rays or other ionizing forms of radiation as part of radiotherapy.

Causes

Radiation proctitis is primarily caused by the radiation therapy used to treat certain cancers, such as cervical cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer. The radiation used in these treatments can damage the colon and rectum, leading to inflammation and other symptoms.

Symptoms

The symptoms of radiation proctitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include:

• Rectal bleeding
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Rectal pain
• Fecal incontinence
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of radiation proctitis is typically made based on the patient's medical history and a physical examination. Additional tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. These tests may include:

• Colonoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Barium enema
• CT scan
• MRI

Treatment

The treatment for radiation proctitis depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be managed with medications and dietary changes, while severe cases may require more invasive treatments. These may include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Antibiotics
• Pain relievers
• Surgery
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Prognosis

The prognosis for radiation proctitis varies depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health. With appropriate treatment, most people with radiation proctitis are able to manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life.

See also

• Radiation therapy
• Proctitis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Colitis

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