Complications of oncologic therapy in the abdomen and pelvis: a review

Abdom Imaging. 2013 Feb;38(1):1-21. doi: 10.1007/s00261-012-9899-x.

Abstract

Cancer therapy has significantly improved in the past few decades with development of various newer classes of cytotoxic chemotherapy as well as novel, molecularly targeted chemotherapy. Similar to chemotherapy, radiotherapy is another important therapeutic option used in the curative and palliative management of various abdominal malignancies. However, both these treatments affect the tumor as well as the normal tissues, leading to significant toxicity. These side effects range from mild to life threatening, and may involve multiple organs. Imaging plays an important role in the early identification of such complications, which may allow more effective patient management. The aim of this article is to discuss and illustrate the wide spectrum of chemotherapy and radiotherapy induced complications in the abdomen and pelvis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Blood Vessels / drug effects*
  • Blood Vessels / radiation effects*
  • Diagnostic Imaging*
  • Digestive System / drug effects*
  • Digestive System / radiation effects*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Pelvis
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Urogenital System / drug effects*
  • Urogenital System / radiation effects*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents