Radiation sigmoiditis mimicking sigmoid colon cancer after radiation therapy for cervical cancer: the implications of three-dimensional image-based brachytherapy planning

J Gynecol Oncol. 2012 Jul;23(3):197-200. doi: 10.3802/jgo.2012.23.3.197. Epub 2012 Jul 2.

Abstract

External-beam radiation therapy with intracavitary high-dose-rate brachytherapy is the standard treatment modality for advanced cervical cancer; however, late gastrointestinal complications are a major concern after radiotherapy. While radiation proctitis is a well-known side effect and radiation oncologists make an effort to reduce it, the sigmoid colon is often neglected as an organ at risk. Herein, we report two cases of radiation sigmoiditis mimicking sigmoid colon cancer after external-beam radiation therapy with intracavitary high-dose-rate brachytherapy for uterine cervical cancer with dosimetric consideration.

Keywords: Radiation complication; Radiation therapy; Sigmoiditis; Uterine cervical carcinoma.