Abstract | PURPOSE: Radiation proctitis is a known complication following radiation therapy for pelvic malignancy. The majority of cases are treated nonsurgically. Rectal instillation of formalin solution has been described as a successful treatment for chronic radiation-induced hemorrhagic proctitis resistant to medical treatment. We present our results in patients undergoing treatment with application of 4 % formalin for radiation-induced injury to the rectum. METHODS: RESULTS: A total of 15 patients with a mean age of 68.9 (range, 48-77) years were followed for 31.3 (range, 18-51) months. The mean interval from the conclusion of radiotherapy and the onset of symptoms was 6.9 months. The mean duration of hemorrhagic proctitis before formalin application was 7.9 months. Ten patients had only one formalin application and five patients required a second application because of the persistent bleeding. Thirteen patients (87 %) had complete cessation of bleeding. No complications related to the formalin treatment were observed. CONCLUSIONS: According to a revision of the literature and our experience, despite the small number of patients in our trial, we can state that the application of 4 % formalin solution is an effective, safe, and well-tolerated treatment for chronic radiation-induced hemorrhagic proctitis with minimal discomfort and no severe complications.
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Authors | Daniele Pironi, Alessandra Panarese, Maurizio Vendettuoli, Stefano Pontone, Salvatore Candioli, Annarita Manigrasso, Flaminia De Cristofaro, Angelo Filippini |
Journal | International journal of colorectal disease
(Int J Colorectal Dis)
Vol. 28
Issue 2
Pg. 261-6
(Feb 2013)
ISSN: 1432-1262 [Electronic] Germany |
PMID | 22932907
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Aged
- Chronic Disease
- Demography
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Formaldehyde
(therapeutic use)
- Humans
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Proctitis
(drug therapy)
- Radiation Injuries
(drug therapy)
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