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Radiation enteritis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Digestive system
Digestive system
Digestive system organs
Digestive system organs

Alternative Names    Return to top

Radiation enteropathy; Radiation-induced small bowel injury

Definition    Return to top

Radiation enteritis is swelling (inflammation) of the lining of the small intestine due to radiation therapy, a type of cancer treatment.

Causes    Return to top

Anyone with cancer needing radiation therapy to the belly area is at risk. This may include people with cervical, uterine, or rectal cancer.

If the damage lasts only a short time, it is called acute radiation enteritis. If damage causes lasting inflammation in the intestine, it is called chronic radiation enteritis.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

The health care provider will do a physical exam and ask you questions about your medical history.

Tests may include:

A sample (biopsy) of suspicious tissue may be taken during these procedures.

Treatment    Return to top

Ways to control the symptoms of radiation enteritis include:

Sometimes patients need fluids given through a vein (intravenous fluids). A medication called octreotide may help for more severe symptoms.

It may be possible to stop or reduce the dosage of radiation for a short period of time. It is important for you to report all symptoms to your doctor so adjustments can be made as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage.

Unfortunately, there often are no good treatments for chronic radiation enteritis.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

When the abdomen is radiated, there is always some nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In most cases, the symptoms get better when the treatments are completed.

However, when this condition develops, symptoms may last for a long period of time. Long-term (chronic) enteritis is rarely curable.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if you are undergoing radiation therapy or have had radiation in the past and are experiencing a lot of diarrhea.

Prevention    Return to top

By limiting the amount of radiation given to the intestines (if possible), you can avoid radiation enteritis.

References    Return to top

Cho LC, Antoine JE. Radiation Injury to the Gastrointestinal Tract. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006: chap 38.

Update Date: 8/22/2008

Updated by: Christian Stone, MD, Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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