K62.7
DESCRIPTION
An inflammatory process of the rectal mucosa that can present acutely (immediately after the initiation of radiation therapy or up to 3 months after) or chronically (8-12 months after completion of therapy). The acute process is usually self-limiting.
Symptoms include diarrhoea, nausea, cramps, tenesmus, urgency, mucus discharge, and minor bleeding.
Severe complications include bleeding, strictures, perforation, fistula, and bowel obstruction.
Diagnosis
Suspect radiation proctitis when there has been previous radiation to the pelvis.
On colonoscopy/sigmoidoscopy, pallor, friability, telangiectasia are seen localised to the area that was exposed to radiation. Do not biopsy.
Exclude other causes, e.g.: malignancy, infection, or inflammatory bowel disease.
REFERRAL
All patients to a radiation oncology centre.