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Published on: January 30, 2018
Effect of pentoxifylline and tocopherol on radiation proctitis/enteritis
Andrea Hille1, Hans Christiansen, Olivier Pradier
1Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University of Goettingen, Germany. ahille@med.uni-goettingen.de
Summary
The combination of pentoxifylline and tocopherol may benefit patients with radiation-induced proctitis/enteritis. This treatment showed symptom relief in 71% of patients, unlike supportive care alone.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiation Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Chronic radiation proctitis/enteritis is a common complication of pelvic irradiation.
- Current treatments primarily focus on supportive measures.
- Pentoxifylline and tocopherol may influence radiation-induced fibrosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical benefit of combined pentoxifylline and tocopherol treatment.
- To compare this combination therapy against supportive care for radiation-induced proctitis/enteritis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 30 patients with radiation-induced proctitis/enteritis (grade I-II).
- 21 patients received pentoxifylline/tocopherol; 9 received supportive care only.
- Toxicity graded using RTOG/EORTC criteria.
Main Results:
- 71% (15/21) of patients on pentoxifylline/tocopherol reported symptom relief.
- Significant toxicity reduction observed in treated patients.
- Supportive care alone resulted in symptom deterioration in 33% of patients.
Conclusions:
- Pentoxifylline and tocopherol combination shows promise for treating radiation-induced proctitis/enteritis.
- Optimal treatment duration requires further investigation, potentially 6-12 months.
- A prospective phase II study is recommended to determine optimal treatment duration.
