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Topical butyrate for acute radiation proctitis: randomised, crossover trial
P Vernia1, P L Fracasso, V Casale
1Cattedra di Gastroenterologia 1, Università La Sapienza, Roma, Italy.
Lancet (London, England)
|November 10, 2000
Summary
Sodium butyrate enemas effectively treated acute radiation proctitis (ARP) in patients undergoing pelvic radiation therapy. This novel treatment offers significant symptom relief and clinical improvement for ARP patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Radiation Medicine
Background:
- Acute radiation proctitis (ARP) is a common complication following pelvic radiation therapy for malignant pelvic disease.
- Currently, no consistently effective therapies exist for managing ARP.
- This study investigated sodium butyrate enemas as a potential treatment for ARP.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of sodium butyrate enemas in treating acute radiation proctitis (ARP).
- To compare the therapeutic effects of sodium butyrate enemas versus saline enemas in ARP patients.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, double-blind, crossover study involving 20 patients with ARP.
- Patients received 3 weeks of either sodium butyrate (80 mmol/L) or saline enemas.
- Clinical, endoscopic, and histological assessments were performed throughout the study.
Main Results:
- Sodium butyrate enemas led to significant remission of ARP symptoms, unlike saline enemas.
- Eight out of nine patients on placebo switched to butyrate experienced remission.
- Butyrate demonstrated statistically significant advantages over placebo across clinical, endoscopic, and histological parameters.
Conclusions:
- Topical sodium butyrate enemas are an effective treatment for acute radiation proctitis (ARP).
- This therapeutic approach offers a promising alternative to existing treatments for radiation-induced proctitis.
