The Effect of Irradiation on the Gastrointestinal Tract

Journal Article · Sat Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1972 · Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1097/00003081-197209000-00005· OSTI ID:4341925

MITCHELL, GEORGE W.; BARDAWIL, WADI A.; BLOEDORN, FERNANDO G.

Factors to be considerea in determining effects of radiation on the morphology of the gastrointestinal tract are dosage, sensitivity of the target organ, and the conterts of the gastrointestinal tract. Pathological changes in the various tissues of the gastrointestinal tract following acute and chronic radiation injury are described. Fibrosis, edema, ulcers, and perforations are among these changes. Clinical effects of radiation on the stomach include delayed emptying of the stomach and a depression in the secretion of acid and enzymes. Effects on the small intestine are increased peristalsis and impaired absorption. The colon is more resistant than the small intestine but also shows increased peristalsis and bacterial infection. The treatment of radiation injuries is discussed with regard to diet, the use of tranquilizers, and factors that predispose to the development of radiation sickness.

• Research Organization: Tufts Univ., Boston
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• NSA Number: NSA-29-018609
• OSTI ID: 4341925
• Journal Information: Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology, Journal Name: Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 15; ISSN 0009-9201
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: English

Related Subjects

*GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT-- PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES
*RADIATION SYNDROME-- THERAPY
62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE
BIOLOGICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
EDEMA
FIBROSIS
LARGE INTESTINE
RADIATION DOSES
RADIATION INJURIES
RADIOSENSITIVITY
SMALL INTESTINE
STOMACH
ULCERS