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Review
. 2015 Jun;28(2):103-11.
doi: 10.1055/s-0035-1547337.

Radiation proctopathy

Marc B Grodsky  1 , Shafik M Sidani  2
Affiliations
Review

Radiation proctopathy

Marc B Grodsky et al. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2015 Jun.

Abstract

Radiation therapy is a widely utilized treatment modality for pelvic malignancies, including prostate cancer, rectal cancer, and cervical cancer. Given its fixed position in the pelvis, the rectum is at a high risk for injury secondary to ionizing radiation. Despite advances made in radiation science, up to 75% of the patients will suffer from acute radiation proctitis and up to 20% may experience chronic symptoms. Symptoms can be variable and include diarrhea, bleeding, incontinence, and fistulization. A multitude of treatment options exist. This article summarizes the latest knowledge relating to radiation proctopathy focusing on the vast array of treatment options.

Keywords: diagnosis; proctitis; radiation; treatment.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Computerized tomography with rectal contrast showing a recto-prostatic urethral fistula secondary to brachytherapy for prostate cancer.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
(A & B): Endoscopic appearance of submucosal telangiectasias typical of radiation proctitis. (C): Endoscopic appearance of more severe radiation proctitis with friable and granular appearing mucosa. (Image courtesy Anjali Kumar, MD, MedStar Washington Hospital Center).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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