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Radiation enteritis - Overview

Alternative Names

Radiation enteropathy; Radiation-induced small bowel injury; Post-radiation enteritis

Definition of Radiation enteritis:

Radiation enteritis is damage to the lining of the intestines (bowels) due to radiation therapy, a type of cancer treatment.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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.

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.

Digestive system

Digestive system organs

Reviewed last on: 7/22/2010
Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital; and George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Czito BG, Willett CG. Radiation injury. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2010: chap 39.

Gastrointestinal Complications (PDQ). Radiation Enteritis. Last modified October 8, 2009.

Enteritis

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