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Radiation enteritis

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Definition:

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

Alternative Names:

Radiation enteropathy; Radiation-induced small bowel injury

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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

If the damage lasts only a short time, it is called acute radiation enteritis. If damage persists and causes long-standing inflammation in the intestine, it is called chronic radiation enteritis.

Chronic radiation enteritis results in long-term diarrhea.

• Review Date: 7/25/2006
• Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-TorresdaleHospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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