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Plasma prostaglandin levels in radiation-induced enteritis
International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics
|February 1, 1982
Summary
This study investigated prostaglandin levels in patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy for gynecological cancer. Results showed no significant increase in plasma prostaglandins despite common side effects like diarrhea.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Radiation-induced enteritis is a common side effect of pelvic radiotherapy.
- Increased prostaglandin synthesis is a suspected cause of radiation-induced enteritis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if plasma prostaglandin levels (Prostaglandin E, Prostaglandin F, and 13, 14 dihydro 15 keto PGF2 alpha metabolite) are elevated during pelvic radiotherapy for gynecological cancer.
Main Methods:
- Seventeen patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy for gynecological cancer were enrolled.
- Plasma prostaglandin levels were measured using radioimmunoassay before, during (weekly), and after radiotherapy.
- Patient-reported symptoms of enteritis, including diarrhea, pain, nausea, and vomiting, were recorded.
Main Results:
- 76% of patients developed significant diarrhea.
- 53% experienced intermittent colicky pain, and 35% had nausea and vomiting.
- Statistical analysis revealed no significant elevation in plasma prostaglandin levels during radiotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Plasma prostaglandin levels do not significantly increase in patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy for gynecological cancer, despite the occurrence of enteritis symptoms.
- The hypothesis implicating increased prostaglandin synthesis as a causative factor in radiation-induced enteritis was not supported by this study.