Bleeding after the Burn: Radiation Colitis in Pelvic-Cancer Survivors—A Five-Case Series
Introduction
Radiation colitis is a chronic complication of pelvic radiotherapy for cancers of the
cervix, bladder , rectum, and prostate. It typically manifests 6–18 months after treatment and causes
significant gastrointestinal morbidity .
Case
by the Cases: In Guyana, limited access to endoscopic therapies such as
Argon Plasma Coagulation (APC) and medications like mesalamine challenges optimal
management.
Case Pr esentation: This series describes five (5) patients who developed symptoms of radiation
colitis, including rectal bleeding, tenesmus, ur gency , and mucus dischar ge 6–18 months post-
radiation. Colonoscopy revealed friability , telangiectasia, and ulceration. Despite restricted
resources, management included oral steroids, sulfasalazine, azathioprine, dietary modification, and
iron supplementation. Regular follow-up and multidisciplinary collaboration between
gastroenterology , oncology , and nutrition ensured symptom control and improved quality of life.
Conclusion
This series highlights that even in resource-limited settings, radiation colitis can be
effectively managed through adaptive use of available medications, coordinated care, and patient-
centred follow-up strategies.
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