Radiation enteritis is damage to the lining of the intestines (bowels) due to radiation therapy, a type of cancer treatment.

Radiation enteropathy; Radiation-induced small bowel injury; Post-radiation enteritis

Radiation therapy uses high-powered x-rays, particles, or radioactive seeds to kill cancer cells.

Along with the cancer cells, radiation therapy may also damage cells that make up the lining of the intestines.

Anyone who receives radiation therapy to the belly or pelvic area is at risk. This may include people with cervical, pancreatic, prostate, uterine, or colon and rectal cancer.

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Digestive system organs

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Radiation enteritis Symptoms

Review Date: 07/22/2010
Reviewed By: Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital; and George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)