Failure of 5-aminosalicylic acid enemas to improve chronic radiation proctitis
Radiation proctitis is a well-known complication of abdominal and pelvic radiation. Conventional medical and surgical treatment often is disappointing. 5-Aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) is the active component in sulfasalazine and is effective in the treatment of distal ulcerative colitis. Four patients with radiation proctitis were treated with 4 g 5-ASA by enema nightly for two to six months. Patients were seen monthly, interviewed, and a sigmoidoscopic exam performed. No change was seen in the degree of mucosal inflammation on follow-up sigmoidoscopic exams. Three patients noted no change in their symptoms of bleeding, pain, or tenesmus. One patient noted initial improvement, but this was not sustained. 5-ASA enemas do not appear to be effective in the treatment of radiation proctitis.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 5901632
- Journal Information:
- Dig. Dis. Sci.; (United States), Vol. 34:5
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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