Radiation enteropathy
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Synonyms and Keywords: Radiation enteritis; Radiation-induced small bowel injury; Post-radiation enteritis
Overview
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Radiation enteropathy or radiation enteritis is the syndrome that develops after the intestine is exposed to radiation.
References
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes of Radiation enteropathy
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Radiation enteropathy or radiation enteritis is the syndrome that develops after the intestine is exposed to radiation.
Causes
- Radiation therapy uses high-powered x-rays, particles, or radioactive seeds to kill cancer cells.
- Along with the cancer cells, radiation therapy may also damage cells that make up the lining of the intestines.
References
Differentiating Radiation enteropathy from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Radiation enteropathy or radiation enteritis is the syndrome that develops after the intestine is exposed to radiation.
References
Risk Factors
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Radiation enteropathy or radiation enteritis is the syndrome that develops after the intestine is exposed to radiation.
Who is at highest risk?
- Anyone who receives radiation therapy to the belly or pelvic area is at risk.
- This may include people with cervical, pancreatic, prostate, uterine, or colon and rectal cancer.
References
Screening
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Radiation enteropathy or radiation enteritis is the syndrome that develops after the intestine is exposed to radiation.
References
Natural history, Complications, and Prognosis
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Radiation enteropathy or radiation enteritis is the syndrome that develops after the intestine is exposed to radiation.
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
- When the abdomen receives radiation, there is always some nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- In most cases, the symptoms get better 2 – 3 weeks after treatment ends.
- However, when this condition develops, symptoms may last for a long period of time. Long-term (chronic) enteritis is rarely curable.
Possible complications
- Bleeding and anemia
- Dehydration
- Malabsorption
- Malnutrition
- Weight loss
References
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Staging | History & Symptoms | Physical Examination | Laboratory Findings | Chest X Ray | CT | MRI | Echocardiography or Ultrasound | Other Imaging Findings | Other Diagnostic Studies |
Treatment
Treatment
Dietary Management | Medical Therapy | Surgery | Primary Prevention | Secondary Prevention | Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy | Future or Investigational Therapies
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