Late effects after radiation therapy for colorectal cancer
In colorectal cancer, irradiation is usually only used if the cancer is rectal. In fact, radiation is often performed before surgery. Late effects of radiation after colorectal cancer are therefore mainly found in the small pelvis.
A distinction can be made between damage to the bowel itself and late effects on neighboring organs and tissues. In the intestine, the influence of radiation therapy as a late consequence can lead to a scarring constriction, for example, which is also called stenosis. If this occurs, often only a new operation can help.
If there are no alternatives, an artificial bowel outlet may even have to be created in some cases of stenosis. Despite this possible late consequence, it must be remembered that without radiation, the risk of recurrence of the malignant tumor in rectal cancer is significantly higher. Other possible late sequelae after radiation after colorectal cancer are external adhesions that can lead to pain, stool retention and, in the worst case, intestinal obstruction. Possible late effects after radiation therapy after colorectal cancer that do not affect the bowel are, in particular, damage to the many fine nerves in the pelvis. This can lead to urinary incontinence or in men to potency disorders.
Late sequelae after irradiation after lung cancer
After irradiation after or in the case of lung cancer, possible late effects occur most frequently in the lungs themselves. Even after months or even years, irradiation can still lead to scarring changes that reduce lung function. The affected persons suffer from reduced performance and may experience shortness of breath or coughing.
However, the changes described can also be the result of surgery for lung cancer. Once both forms of treatment have been carried out, it is usually impossible to say what is ultimately responsible for the late effects. It is important to consult a doctor if symptoms occur. In rare cases, these may also be signs of recurrence of the lung cancer. Likewise, a second case of cancer can occur as a late consequence after radiation therapy of lung cancer.
