radiation colitis

i have a patient who has completed RCHOP for stage 3B NHL in her gastric lymph nodes.  She is about to undergo radiotherapy and concerned about developing colitis.  is there anything to do pre-radiotherapy (due to start in 4 weeks) or during it to help prevent this?? many thanks

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi Gills20,
Radiation colitis and enteritis can be prevented by -

1.Probiotics decrease the incidence of radiation induced diarrhea
2. Amifostine
3. Prostaglandins like enprostil and misoprostol
4. Special diets and nutrients such as elemental diets, high fiber diet, short chain fatty acid and amino caid like glutamine
5. Steroids
6. Sucralfate
7. Intensity modulated radiotherapy

Consult your oncologist for more details.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.