Is there more than one late radiation proctitis syndrome?

Toxicity report of once weekly radiation therapy for low-risk prostate adenocarcinoma: preliminary results of a phase I/II trial

Background

Increasing clinical data supports a low α/β ratio for prostate adenocarcinoma, potentially lower than that of surrounding normal tissues. A hypofractionated, weekly radiation therapy (RT) schedule should result in improved tumour control, reduced acute toxicity, and similar or decreased late effects. We report the toxicity profile of such treatment.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a multi-institution phase I/II trial of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) for favourable-risk prostate cancer (T1a-T2a, Gleason ≤ 6 and PSA < 10 ng/ml). RT consisted of 45 Gy in nine 5 Gy fractions, once weekly. Primary end-points were feasibility and late gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity (RTOG scale), while secondary end-points included acute GI toxicity, acute and late genitourinary (GU) toxicity, biochemical control, and survival.

Results

Between 2006 and 2008, 80 patients were treated. No treatment interruptions occurred. The median follow-up is 33 months (range: 20-51). Maximal grade 1, 2, and 3 acute (< 3 months) GU toxicity was 29%, 31% and 5% respectively (no grade 4). Acute GI grade 1 toxicity was reported in 30% while grade 2 occurred in 14% (no grade 3 or 4). Crude late grade ≥ 3 toxicity rates at 31 months were 2% for both GU and GI toxicity. Cumulative late grade ≥ 3 GI toxicity at 3 years was 11%. Two patients had PSA failure according to the Phoenix definition. The three-year actuarial biochemical control rate is 97%.

Conclusions

Weekly RT with 45 Gy in 9 fractions is feasible and results in comparable toxicity. Long term tumour control and survival remain to be assessed.

Randomised clinical trial: preventive treatment with topical rectal beclomethasone dipropionate reduces post-radiation risk of bleeding in patients irradiated for prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Radiotherapy is an established treatment modality for prostate cancer; however, up to a third of patients develops a radiation-induced proctopathy.

AIM

To assess the effect of topical beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) in the prevention of radiation-induced proctopathy in patients undergoing radiotherapy for prostate cancer through a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial.

METHODS

Patients were randomised either to BDP or to placebo (PL). Patients received daily a 3mg BDP enema or identical-looking PL during radiotherapy and, subsequently, two 3mg BDP suppositories or PL for 4 more weeks. Clinical and endoscopic evaluations before, 3 and 12months after the end of radiotherapy were assessed with the RTOG/EORTC toxicity scales, the modified Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (SCCAI), the modified Inflammatory Bowel disease Quality of Life Index (IBDQ) and the Vienna Rectoscopy Score (VRS).

RESULTS

From June 2007 to October 2008, 120 patients were randomised to the BDP (n=60) and PL (n=60) arms and were followed up for 12months. The overall assessment of rectal side effects did not show significant differences between the two groups of treatment. However, when only rectal bleeding was considered, a significantly reduced risk was observed in patients on BDP (OR 0.38; 95% CI 0.17-0.86; P=0.02; NNT=5). Patients on BDP had also significantly lower VRS scores (P=0.028) and significantly higher IBDQ scores (P=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Preventive treatment with topical rectal BDP during radiotherapy for prostate cancer significantly reduces the risk of rectal bleeding and radiation-induced mucosal changes and improves patient's quality of life, but does not influence other radiation-induced symptoms.

Mast cells are an essential component of human radiation proctitis and contribute to experimental colorectal damage in mice

Radiation proctitis is characterized by mucosal inflammation followed by adverse chronic tissue remodeling and is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Mast cell hyperplasia has been associated with diseases characterized by pathological tissue remodeling and fibrosis. Rectal tissue from patients treated with radiotherapy shows mast cell hyperplasia and activation, suggesting that these cells play a role in the development of radiation-induced sequelae. To investigate the role of mast cells in radiation damage, experimental radiation proctitis was induced in a mast cell-deficient (W(sh)/W(sh)) mouse model. The colon and rectum of W(sh)/W(sh) and wild-type mice were exposed to 27-Gy single-dose irradiation and studied after 2 and 14 weeks. Irradiated rodent rectum showed mast cell hyperplasia. W(sh)/W(sh) mice developed less acute and chronic rectal radiation damage than their control littermates. Tissue protection was associated with increased tissue neutrophil influx and expression of several inflammatory mediators immediately after radiation exposure. It was further demonstrated that mast cell chymase, tryptase, and histamine could change human muscularis propria smooth muscle cells into a migrating/proliferating and proinflammatory phenotype. These data show that mast cells have deleterious effects on both acute and chronic radiation proctitis, possibly by limiting acute tissue neutrophil influx and by favoring phenotypic orientation of smooth muscle cells, thus making them active participants in the radiation-induced inflammatory process and dystrophy of the rectal wall.

Gender-specific acute organ toxicity during intensified preoperative radiochemotherapy for rectal cancer

Patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (cUICC stages II/III) are typically treated with preoperative 5-fluorouracil-based (5-FU-based) radiochemotherapy (RCT). However, trials are currently being conducted to improve the complete remission rates and the systemic control by combining 5-FU with oxaliplatin. The primary objective was to identify the subgroups of rectal cancer patients who were at risk for high-grade toxicity. All 196 patients who were included in the present study were treated with 50.4 Gy and chemotherapy that included either 5-FU (n = 115) or 5-FU+oxaliplatin (n = 81). The preoperative RCT was followed by a total mesorectal excision and adjuvant chemotherapy. Acute toxicity was monitored weekly and a toxicity grade ≥3 (Common Toxicity Criteria) for a skin reaction, cystitis, proctitis, or enteritis was defined as high-grade acute organ toxicity. After RCT with 5-FU+oxaliplatin, complete tumor remission was achieved in 13.6% of the patients and in 11.3% after RCT with 5-FU alone. Complete irradiation dosages of 50.4 Gy were given to 99% (5-FU) and 95% (5-FU+oxaliplatin) of the patients. Concomitant chemotherapy was fully administered in 95% of the patients treated with 5-FU compared with the 84% of patients treated with 5-FU+oxaliplatin. A significantly higher proportion of acute organ toxicity was found in the patients who were treated with 5-FU+oxaliplatin compared with those who were treated with 5-FU. Additionally, women with a low body mass index were at the highest risk for acute organ toxicity. These results suggest that there are basic clinical parameters, such as gender and body mass index, that may be potential markers for generating individual risk profiles of RCT-induced toxicity.

"Pelvic radiation disease": new understanding and new solutions for a new disease in the era of cancer survivorship

BACKGROUND

Cancer therapies increasingly achieve cure, but result in chronic moderate or severe gastrointestinal side effects in millions of patients worldwide. Paradoxically, modern therapies threaten to increase the burden of chronic gastrointestinal toxicity, not reduce it.

AIM

To define pelvic radiation disease.

METHODS

A reinterpretation of published data.

RESULTS

The lack of interest in patients with pelvic radiation disease is startling. Symptoms after radiotherapy are only a manifestation of new onset gastrointestinal physiological deficits induced by the radiotherapy. With proper diagnosis and treatment of these deficit(s), the symptoms are curable. Science suggests that much radiotherapy-induced gastrointestinal morbidity is preventable. Once the true nature of radiation injury is understood, straightforward solutions emerge and inaccurate dogmas can be discarded. Imprecise language is a fundamental barrier to progress in complex disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiation-induced gastrointestinal toxicity is bedeviled by inappropriate terminology, causing confusion, and myth which legitimizes inappropriate clinical behavior. We must address honestly the uncomfortable reality that doctors, sometimes do harm. Not to do so in an era where survivorship is a reality, will deny millions often with severe symptoms from "pelvic radiation disease", the care which will help them.

Radiation colitis and proctitis

Radiation therapy is commonly utilized as a major component in the treatment of pelvic malignancy. Unfortunately, secondary toxicity to the lower gastrointestinal tract can occur. This most commonly affects the rectum, although injuries to the colon and small intestine are not uncommon. The presentation can be acute or chronic, and different mechanisms are responsible for each. Symptomatology is quite variable but can result in significant compromise for the patient. Numerous preventive and treatment strategies have been applied to this disease process. This article presents a summary of the current knowledge regarding radiation injury to the lower gastrointestinal tract with special emphasis on treatment options for radiation proctitis.

Faecal calprotectin and lactoferrin values during irradiation of prostate cancer correlate with chronic radiation proctitis: results of a prospective study

OBJECTIVE

Acute proctitis and chronic radiation proctitis are relevant complications of pelvic radiation. The purpose of this study was to investigate two markers of gut inflammation during and after irradiation for prostate cancer to evaluate a correlation between acute and chronic proctitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Two patient groups were analysed. In group 1, stool samples from 20 patients were collected before therapy, every week during therapy, at the end of therapy, and 13 and 27 months after therapy. Group 2 comprised 47 patients who had undergone irradiation 40 months earlier. Toxicity was determined by common toxicity criteria (CTC) and the LENT soma scale. Calprotectin and lactoferrin values were determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

In group 1, acute values for both faecal markers were significantly correlated with chronic proctitis symptoms and all patients with chronic toxicity had acute proctitis symptoms with elevated faecal values. In group 2, where stool samples were solely collected 40 months after irradiation, the Pearson square test showed both a significant correlation between calprotectin and lactoferrin values and toxicity after 40 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Within a group of 19 patients followed for two years after irradiation for prostate cancer, and 47 patients tested 40 months after irradiation, increased faecal values of calprotectin and lactoferrin were significantly correlated with the occurrence of chronic proctitis. This observation should be confirmed in an expanded study.

Predicting late effects of pelvic radiotherapy: is there a better approach?

PURPOSE

Significant chronic symptoms following pelvic radiotherapy occur more frequently than commonly realized. Predictive factors for the development of late symptoms are poorly defined. Moderate sustained acute (cumulative) toxicity might predict severe late effects better than peak reaction.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

To determine prospectively whether peak or cumulative gastrointestinal (GI) acute symptoms better predict late symptoms in patients receiving pelvic radiotherapy. Symptom scores were measured weekly from the start of radiotherapy, and at 1 year using the Modified Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire-Bowel subset. The possible prognostic impact of patient-related factors was explored.

RESULTS

Three hundred and eight patients were recruited. 100 were excluded due to lack of follow-up data at one year resulting from death, too ill, stoma, relapsed, non-response or withdrawal. A further 15 were excluded for incomplete data, leaving 193 patients with evaluable data. Of these, 28 had GI, 101 urological, and 64 gynecological cancers. Patients' median age was 65 years (range, 23-82), and they were treated with median 60 Gy dose for a median of 6 weeks. Univariate analysis revealed a significant association between cumulative acute symptom scores and scores at 1 year (p < 0.001), which was dose-independent (p < 0.001). Acute peak and 1-year scores were not associated (p = 0.431). The correlation coefficient between cumulative acute symptoms and symptoms at 1 year was 0.367 and for peak acute symptoms was weaker at 0.057. Patients with an abnormal body mass index and current smokers were more likely to experience worse symptoms at 1 year.

CONCLUSION

Cumulative acute symptoms are more predictive of late symptoms than peak acute changes in score. This association is independent of the radiotherapy dose delivered and is suggestive of a consequential late effect.

Radiation dose-volume effects in radiation-induced rectal injury

The available dose/volume/outcome data for rectal injury were reviewed. The volume of rectum receiving >or=60 Gy is consistently associated with the risk of Grade >or=2 rectal toxicity or rectal bleeding. Parameters for the Lyman-Kutcher-Burman normal tissue complication probability model from four clinical series are remarkably consistent, suggesting that high doses are predominant in determining the risk of toxicity. The best overall estimates (95% confidence interval) of the Lyman-Kutcher-Burman model parameters are n = 0.09 (0.04-0.14); m = 0.13 (0.10-0.17); and TD(50) = 76.9 (73.7-80.1) Gy. Most of the models of late radiation toxicity come from three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy dose-escalation studies of early-stage prostate cancer. It is possible that intensity-modulated radiotherapy or proton beam dose distributions require modification of these models because of the inherent differences in low and intermediate dose distributions.

Dose-volume constraints to reduce rectal side effects from prostate radiotherapy: evidence from MRC RT01 Trial ISRCTN 47772397

PURPOSE

Radical radiotherapy for prostate cancer is effective but dose limited because of the proximity of normal tissues. Comprehensive dose-volume analysis of the incidence of clinically relevant late rectal toxicities could indicate how the dose to the rectum should be constrained. Previous emphasis has been on constraining the mid-to-high dose range (>/=50 Gy). Evidence is emerging that lower doses could also be important.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Data from a large multicenter randomized trial were used to investigate the correlation between seven clinically relevant rectal toxicity endpoints (including patient- and clinician-reported outcomes) and an absolute 5% increase in the volume of rectum receiving the specified doses. The results were quantified using odds ratios. Rectal dose-volume constraints were applied retrospectively to investigate the association of constraints with the incidence of late rectal toxicity.

RESULTS

A statistically significant dose-volume response was observed for six of the seven endpoints for at least one of the dose levels tested in the range of 30-70 Gy. Statistically significant reductions in the incidence of these late rectal toxicities were observed for the group of patients whose treatment plans met specific proposed dose-volume constraints. The incidence of moderate/severe toxicity (any endpoint) decreased incrementally for patients whose treatment plans met increasing numbers of dose-volume constraints from the set of V30

CONCLUSION

Considering the entire dose distribution to the rectum by applying dose-volume constraints such as those tested here in the present will reduce the incidence of late rectal toxicity.

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Key Words Collapse

MESH Headings

• Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation
• Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage/etiology
• Humans
• Male
• Odds Ratio
• Prostatic Neoplasms/radiotherapy
• Radiation Injuries/complications
• Radiation Injuries/prevention & control
• Radiotherapy Dosage
• Rectal Diseases/etiology
• Rectum/pathology
• Rectum/radiation effects

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Grants

• G0501019 Medical Research Council
• MC_U122861330 Medical Research Council
• C46/A2131 Cancer Research UK

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Affiliation(s)

Sarah L Gulliford Joint Department of Physics, Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden National Health Service Foundation Trust, Sutton, United Kingdom
Kerwyn Foo
Rachel C Morgan
Edwin G Aird
A Margaret Bidmead
Helen Critchley
Philip M Evans
Stefano Gianolini
W Philip Mayles
A Rollo Moore
Beatriz Sánchez-Nieto
Mike Partridge
Matthew R Sydes
Steve Webb
David P Dearnaley

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Disturbed colonic motility contributes to anorectal symptoms and dysfunction after radiotherapy for carcinoma of the prostate

PURPOSE

To evaluate the role of colonic motility in the pathogenesis of anorectal symptoms and dysfunction after radiotherapy (RT) for carcinoma of the prostate.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-eight patients, median age 71 (range, 50-81) years with localized prostate carcinoma randomized to one of two radiation dose schedules underwent colonic transit scintigraphy and assessment of anorectal symptoms (questionnaire), anorectal function (manometry), and anal sphincteric morphology (endoanal ultrasound) before and at 1 month and 1 year after RT.

RESULTS

Whole and distal colonic transit increased 1 month after RT, with faster distal colonic transit only persisting at 1 year. Frequency and urgency of defecation, fecal incontinence, and rectal bleeding increased 1 month after RT and persisted at 1 year. Basal anal pressures remained unchanged, but progressive reductions occurred in anal squeeze pressures and responses to increased intra-abdominal pressure. Rectal compliance decreased progressively in the patients, although no changes in anorectal sensory function ensued. Radiotherapy had no effect on the morphology of the internal and external anal sphincters. Distal colonic retention was weakly related to rectal compliance at 1 month, but both faster colonic transit and reduced rectal compliance were more frequent with increased fecal urgency. At 1 year, a weak inverse relationship existed between colonic half-clearance time and frequency of defecation, although both faster whole-colonic transit and reduced rectal compliance occurred more often with increased stool frequency.

CONCLUSION

Colonic dysmotility contributes to anorectal dysfunction after RT for carcinoma of the prostate. This has implications for improving the management of anorectal radiation sequelae.

Profiles and time course of acute radiation toxicity symptoms during conformal radiotherapy for cancer of the prostate

Symptoms of gastrointestinal toxicity are dose-limiting for pelvic radiotherapy (RT). Existing toxicity registrations (RTOG/EORTC) are helpful in defining maximal tolerated doses, but tend to underestimate the total toxicity burden by excluding several minor complaints. We have applied a more detailed and quantitative recording of symptoms and related these scores to RT-induced endoscopic and histopathologic changes. Prevalence and severity of specific toxicity symptoms were recorded before, during (weeks 2 and 6) and 2 and 8 weeks after RT in 96 patients undergoing external beam RT for localized prostate cancer. RTOG/EORTC acute toxicity and ad hoc total toxicity scores (TTS) were recorded. TTS scores were calculated by adding scores based on visual analog scale (VAS) grading of individual symptoms Fifty of the patients also underwent sequential proctoscopy with mucosal biopsy. Individual symptoms increased, but differed in prevalence and intensity during and after RT TTS increased during the entire treatment course in spite of normalizing histopathologic and endoscopic changes from week 2 onwards. Twenty-seven patients had no RTOG/EORTC toxicity, four had grade 3 and none had grade 4 toxicity. All patients with grade 0 had increased TTS. Thus, TTS appeared more sensitive than RTOG/EORTC scoring. The study demonstrates that multiple toxicity symptoms contribute to total toxicity in response to pelvic RT. TTS is a feasible and sensitive method for detecting and quantifying acute toxicity and unveils morbidity which remains hidden with the RTOG/EORTC score system. The development and timing of symptoms may give clues to pathogenesis, treatment, and prophylaxis.

Is there more than one proctitis syndrome? A revisitation using data from the TROG 96.01 trial

PURPOSE

We sought to categorize longitudinal radiation-induced rectal toxicity data obtained from men participating in a randomised controlled trial for locally advanced prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from self-assessed questionnaires of rectal symptoms and clinician recorded remedial interventions were collected during the TROG 96.01 trial. In this trial, volunteers were randomised to radiation with or without neoadjuvant androgen deprivation. Characterization of longitudinal variations in symptom intensity was achieved using prevalence data. An integrated visualization and clustering approach based on memetic algorithms was used to define the compositions of symptom clusters occurring before, during and after radiation. The utility of the CTC grading system as a means of identifying specific injury profiles was evaluated using concordance analyses.

RESULTS

Seven well-defined clusters of rectal symptoms were present prior to treatment, 25 were seen immediately following radiation and 7 at years 1, 2 and 3 following radiation. CTC grading did not concord with the degree of rectal 'distress' and 'problems' at all time points. Concordance was not improved by adding urgency to the CTC scale.

CONCLUSIONS

The CTC scale has serious shortcomings. A powerful new technique for non-hierarchical clustering may contribute to the categorization of rectal toxicity data for genomic profiling studies and detailed patho-physiological studies.

Radiation damage to the gastrointestinal tract: mechanisms, diagnosis, and management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize current knowledge about gastrointestinal radiation toxicity, with emphasis on mechanisms and clinical diagnosis and management.

RECENT FINDINGS

While there has been only modest change in cancer incidence and cancer mortality rates during the past 30 years, the number of cancer survivors has more than doubled. Moreover, the recognition of uncomplicated cancer cure as the ultimate goal in oncology has intensified efforts to prevent, diagnose, and manage side effects of radiation therapy. These efforts have been facilitated by recent insight into the underlying pathophysiology.

SUMMARY

The risk of injury to the intestine is dose limiting during abdominal and pelvic radiation therapy. Delayed bowel toxicity is difficult to manage and adversely impacts the quality of life of cancer survivors. More than 200,000 patients per year receive abdominal or pelvic radiation therapy, and the estimated number of cancer survivors with postradiation intestinal dysfunction is 1.5-2 million. Worthwhile progress towards reducing toxicity of radiation therapy has been made by dose-sculpting treatment techniques. Approaches derived from an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of bowel injury, however, will result in further advances. This article discusses the mechanisms of radiation-induced bowel toxicity and reviews current principles in diagnosis and management.

Role of intensity-modulated radiotherapy in reducing toxicity in dose escalation for localized prostate cancer

PURPOSE

To compare the acute and late gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) toxicity in prostate cancer patients treated to a total dose of 78 Gy with either a three-conformal radiotherapy technique with a sequential boost (SEQ) or a simultaneous integrated boost using intensity-modulated radiotherapy (SIB-IMRT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 78 prostate cancer patients participating in the randomized Dutch trial comparing 68 Gy and 78 Gy were the subject of this analysis. They were all treated at the same institution to a total dose of 78 Gy. The median follow-up was 76 and 56 months for the SEQ and SIB-IMRT groups, respectively. The primary endpoints were acute and late GI and GU toxicity.

RESULTS

A significantly lower incidence of acute Grade 2 or greater GI toxicity occurred in patients treated with SIB-IMRT compared with SEQ (20% vs. 61%, p = 0.001). For acute GU toxicity and late GI and GU toxicity, the incidence was lower after SIB-IMRT, but these differences were not statistically significant. No statistically significant difference were found in the 5-year freedom from biochemical failure rate (Phoenix definition) between the two groups (70% for the SIB-IMRT group vs. 61% for the SEQ group, p = 0.3). The same was true for the 5-year freedom from clinical failure rate (90% vs. 72%, p = 0.07).

CONCLUSION

The results of our study have shown that SIB-IMRT reduced the toxicity without compromising the outcome in patients with localized prostate cancer treated to 78 Gy radiation.

Anorectal function after three- versus two-dimensional radiation therapy for carcinoma of the prostate

PURPOSE

To compare the effects of (three-dimensional) 3D vs. two-dimensional (2D) radiation therapy (RT) for carcinoma of the prostate on the prevalence and pathophysiology of anorectal dysfunction.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Anorectal symptoms, motility, sensory function, and anal sphincter morphology were evaluated before and up to 2 years after randomly assigned hypofractionated vs. conventionally fractionated RT in 67 patients (median age, 69 years; range, 54-82 years) with localized prostate carcinoma, using either a 3D (n = 29) or 2D (n = 38) treatment technique.

RESULTS

Anorectal symptoms increased 4 to 6 weeks after RT and persisted in both patient groups. At 2 years, abnormalities included increased stool frequency (55% vs. 53%, p = NS), urgency of defecation (72% vs. 47%, p < 0.05), fecal incontinence (28% vs. 26%, p = NS), and rectal bleeding (38% and 42%, p = NS). Anorectal motility and sensory function deteriorated after RT in both groups with reductions in basal anal pressures, anal pressures in response to squeeze, rectal compliance, and rectal volumes associated with the desire to defecate. External but not internal sphincter thickness changed in the treatment groups although in different directions. However no differences in motility or sensory function were detected between the groups. Baseline anorectal motility but not treatment technique and the hypofracionated schedule were of independent prognostic significance for anorectal motor dysfunction and rectal bleeding respectively at 2 years.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence and pathophysiology of anorectal dysfunction 2 years after RT for prostate carcinoma was largely independent of the treatment techniques used in this study.

Improved quality of life with hyperbaric oxygen therapy in patients with persistent pelvic radiation-induced toxicity

AIMS

We report the results of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) used in the treatment of radiation-induced persistent side-effects after the irradiation of pelvic tumours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2001 and December 2005, 13 women (median age 60.3 years) with radiation combined proctitis/cystitis (n=6), longstanding vaginal ulcers and fistulas (n=5) and longstanding skin injuries (n=2) underwent HBOT in a multiplace chamber for a median of 27 sessions (range 16-40). The treatment schedule was HBOT 100% oxygen, at 2 absolute atmospheres, for 90 min, once a day. For radiation-induced toxicity grading we used the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) grading system, before and after HBOT.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients underwent an adequate number of HBOT sessions. The mean CTC grading score before HBOT was 3.3+/-0.75, whereas the mean CTC grading score after HBOT was 0.3+/-0.63. The scores showed a significant improvement after HBOT (P=0.001; exact Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Rectal bleeding ceased in five of six patients with proctitis and dysuria resolved in six of seven cystitis patients. Macroscopic haematuria stopped in seven of seven patients. Scar complications resolved in two of two patients. None reported HBOT-associated side-effects.

CONCLUSION

HBOT is apparently safe and effective in managing radiation-induced late side-effects, such as soft tissue necrosis (skin and vagina), cystitis, proctitis and fistulas.

Gastrointestinal symptoms after pelvic radiotherapy: a new understanding to improve management of symptomatic patients

Gastrointestinal symptoms after pelvic radiotherapy, which affect quality of life, are substantially more common than generally recognised and are frequently poorly managed. These symptoms develop because radiation can induce change in one or more specific physiological functions in widely separated parts of the gastrointestinal tract that lie in the path of the radiotherapy beam. Radiation-induced changes are not confined by normal anatomical boundaries. Furthermore, pre-existing subclinical disease might be destabilised because of minor gastrointestinal changes induced by radiotherapy. New diseases might manifest after radiotherapy and be confused with symptoms induced by radiotherapy. Different functional deficits might cause the same symptoms. Many patients have more than one cause for their symptoms, which sometimes need very different treatments. Simple diagnostic tests that are used in other contexts, if applied appropriately to patients with new gastrointestinal symptoms after radiotherapy, can identify the underlying causes of new-onset symptoms. Starting treatment without knowing the cause of the symptom is commonly ineffective because prediction of the combination of treatments needed is difficult. Evidence suggests that many patients have unusual but highly treatable malfunctions of gastrointestinal physiology, which if correctly diagnosed may enable a patient with difficult symptoms to be helped.

Is there a limit to dose escalation for rectal cancer?

The radiation tolerance of the rectum is not fully understood. Published studies on the radiation treatment of cancers of the prostate, cervix and rectum have been reviewed to determine currently recommended dose-volume guidelines. The need for further studies directed specifically at the treatment of primary rectal cancer and perirectal node metastases is discussed. There seems to be room for escalation of the external beam doses currently given.

Treatment of radiation proctitis

Late complications of pelvic radiotherapy occur in 5-20% of patients, particularly chronic radiation proctitis (CRP). Rectal bleeding is the most common symptom. Other symptoms include difficulty in defaecation or tenesmus because of loss of distensibility of the rectum or rectal structuring. Treatment options of CRP include oral therapy (5-aminosalicylates, metronidazole), rectal instillation therapy (hydrocortisone, sucralfate, 5-aminosalicylates, formalin), thermal therapy (argon plasma coagulation, heater probe or laser) and hyperbaric oxygen. It is difficult to recommend evidence-based therapy. There are no adequately powered studies of the treatment of CRP and most data are uncontrolled, non-blinded observation studies from single sites. There are no standard evaluation tools (including endoscopic grading, symptom scores and quality-of-life scores), adequate description of preceding radiotherapy dose or adequate follow-up in most studies. Many studies have poor documentation of complications and few are carried out prospectively. A pragmatic approach is to use sucralfate enemas and oral metronidazole. Thermal methods seem to be effective and safe. Simple heater probe treatment or argon plasma coagulation are the preferred methods due to their better safety profile. Intra-rectal formalin seems to be effective, but possibly has a higher rate of complications. For resistant disease, hyperbaric oxygen may be an option.

Late radiotherapy-induced lower intestinal toxicity (RILIT) of intensity-modulated radiotherapy for prostate cancer: the need for adapting toxicity scales and the appearance of the sigmoid colon as co-responsible organ for lower intestinal toxicity

PURPOSE

To report on: 1. Late radiotherapy-induced lower intestinal toxicity (RILIT) after intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for prostate cancer. 2. The correlation between late RILIT and volume parameters of the rectum, sigmoid colon and small bowel.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included 241 patients with a follow-up of >or=18 months for this analysis. Late RILIT consisted of 8 different symptoms, comprising the 5 symptoms from the RTOG toxicity score supplemented with urgency, fecal incontinence and anal pain. Late RILIT and late RTOG toxicity were scored prospectively and correlated with: 1. Different rectum, sigmoid colon and small bowel volume parameters. 2. Patient-related morbidity. We calculated the median, quartile and percentiles for the different volume parameters and correlated them with grade 1-3 late RILIT.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 42 months. Three patients developed grade 3 red blood loss. We registered grade 2 RILIT and RTOG toxicity in 13% and 10%, respectively, the most frequent grade 1 symptom being fecal urgency. The intermediate rectal volume parameters were significantly correlated with late RILIT. We were able to calculate cut-off dose-volume histograms (DVHs) that predict for grade 0-2 RILIT.

CONCLUSIONS

After IMRT for prostate cancer, the overall incidence of grade >or=2 RILIT is low. Cut-off DVHs can be used for patient counseling.

Treatment-Related Symptom Clusters

OBJECTIVES

To provide a clinical overview of treatment-related symptom clusters.

DATA SOURCES

Journal articles, research reports, state of the science papers, and clinical practice experience.

CONCLUSION

Although understanding the etiology and interaction of symptoms may lead to targeted interventions, the nurse must often manage symptoms in which the cause or causes cannot be changed or in which there are multiple overlapping etiologies that lead to complex and challenging clinical presentations. Systematic and ongoing evaluation of symptoms, their treatment-related trajectory, and their response to interventions is essential.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Systematic assessment of symptoms and symptom cluster presence, severity, and distress can guide the practitioner to intervene using evidence-based practice. Individualized care and evaluation of response is needed.

Predictors for rectal and intestinal acute toxicities during prostate cancer high-dose 3D-CRT: results of a prospective multicenter study

PURPOSE

To find predictors for rectal and intestinal acute toxicity in patients with prostate cancer treated with > or =70 Gy conformal radiotherapy.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Between July 2002 and March 2004, 1,132 patients were entered into a cooperative study (AIROPROS01-02). Toxicity was scored using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer scale and by considering the changes (before and after treatment) of the scores of a self-administered questionnaire on rectal/intestinal toxicity. The correlation with a number of parameters was assessed by univariate and multivariate analyses. Concerning the questionnaire, only moderate/severe complications were considered.

RESULTS

Of 1,132 patients, 1,123 were evaluable. Of these patients, 375, 265, and 28 had Grade 1, 2, and 3 Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer toxicity, respectively. The mean rectal dose was the most predictive parameter (p = 0.0004; odds ratio, 1.035) for Grade 2 or worse toxicity, and the use of anticoagulants/antiaggregants (p = 0.02; odds ratio, 0.63) and hormonal therapy (p = 0.04, odds ratio, 0.65) were protective. The questionnaire-based scoring revealed that a greater mean rectal dose was associated with a greater risk of bleeding; larger irradiated volumes were associated with frequency, tenesmus, incontinence, and bleeding; hormonal therapy was protective against frequency and tenesmus; hemorrhoids were associated with a greater risk of tenesmus and bleeding; and diabetes associated highly with diarrhea.

CONCLUSION

The mean rectal dose correlated with acute rectal/intestinal toxicity in three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for prostate cancer, and hormonal therapy and the use of anticoagulants/antiaggregants were protective. According to the moderate/severe injury scores on the self-assessed questionnaire, several clinical and dose-volume parameters were independently predictive for particular symptoms.

Radiation proctopathy in the treatment of prostate cancer

PURPOSE

To compile and review data on radiation proctopathy in the treatment of prostate cancer with respect to epidemiology, clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, risk factors, and treatment.

METHODS

Medical literature databases including PubMed and Medline were screened for pertinent reports, and critically analyzed for relevance in the scope of our purpose.

RESULTS

Rectal toxicity as a complication of radiotherapy has received attention over the past decade, especially with the advent of dose-escalation in prostate cancer treatment. A number of clinical criteria help to define acute and chronic radiation proctopathy, but lack of a unified grading scale makes comparing studies difficult. A variety of risk factors, related to either radiation delivery or patient, are the subject of intense study. Also, a variety of treatment options, including medical therapy, endoscopic treatments, and surgery have shown varied results, but a lack of large randomized trials evaluating their efficacy prevents forming concrete recommendations.

CONCLUSION

Radiation proctopathy should be an important consideration for the clinician in the treatment of prostate cancer especially with dose escalation. With further study of possible risk factors, the advent of a standardized grading scale, and more randomized trials to evaluate treatments, patients and physicians will be better armed to make appropriate management decisions.

Reduced late rectal mucosal changes after prostate three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy with endorectal balloon as observed in repeated endoscopy

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate prospectively the rectal wall (Rwall) spatial dose distribution, toxicity, and mucosal changes after prostate cancer radiotherapy with or without an endorectal balloon (ERB).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A total of 24 patients with ERB and 24 without ERB (No-ERB) were treated with three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) to a dose of 67.5 Gy. The Rwall was divided into 16 mucosal areas and Rwall dose surface maps were constructed. After 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years a rectosigmoidoscopy was performed, and each mucosal area was scored on telangiectasia, congestion, ulceration, stricture, and necrosis. Late rectal toxicity was correlated with the endoscopic findings.

RESULTS

The ERB significantly reduced the Rwall volume exposed to doses >40 Gy. Late rectal toxicity (grade >or=1, including excess of bowel movements and slight rectal discharge) was reduced significantly in the ERB group. A total of 146 endoscopies and 2,336 mucosal areas were analyzed. Telangiectases were most frequently seen and appeared after 6 months. At 1 and 2 years, significantly less high-grade telangiectasia (T 2-3) was observed in the ERB group at the lateral and posterior part of the Rwall. In mucosal areas exposed to doses >40 Gy, less high-grade telangiectases (T 2-3) were seen in the ERB group compared with the No-ERB group.

CONCLUSIONS

An ERB reduced the Rwall volume exposed to doses >40 Gy, resulting in reduction of late rectal mucosal changes and reduced late rectal toxicity. Although further analysis is needed, these data suggest an ERB-induced increased tolerance for late Rwall damage.

Hypofractionated versus conventionally fractionated radiation therapy for prostate carcinoma: Updated results of a phase III randomized trial

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the toxicity and efficacy of radiation therapy (RT) for localized carcinoma of the prostate, using a hypofractionated (55 Gy/20 fractions/4 weeks) vs. a conventionally fractionated (64 Gy/32 fractions/6.5 weeks) dose schedule.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A total of 217 patients were randomized to either the hypofractionated (108 patients) or the conventional (109 patients) dose schedule, with planning with two-dimensional (2D) CT scan planning methodology in the majority of cases. All patients were followed for a median of 48 (6-108) months. Gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) toxicity was evaluated before RT and after its completion using modified late effects of normal tissue-subjective, objective, management, analytic (LENT-SOMA) scales and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer sexual function questionnaire. Efficacy of RT based on clinical, radiologic, and prostate-specific antigen data were also evaluated at baseline and after RT.

RESULTS

Gastrointestinal and GU toxicity persisted 5 years after RT and did not differ between the two dose schedules other than in regard to urgency of defecation. However, 1-month GI toxicity was not only worse in patients with the hypofractionated RT schedule but also adversely affected daily activities. Nadir prostate-specific antigen values occurred at a median of 18.0 (3.0-54.0) months after RT. A total of 76 biochemical relapses, with or without clinical relapses, have occurred since; of these, 37 were in the hypofractionated and 39 in the conventional schedule. The 5-year biochemical +/- clinical relapse-free and overall survival was 55.9% and 85.3% respectively for all patients, and did not differ between the two schedules.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiation therapy for prostate carcinoma causes persistent GI toxicity that is largely independent of the two dose schedules. The hypofractionated schedule is equivalent in efficacy to the conventional schedule.

Treatment of a radiation-induced rectal ulcer with hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a man with prostate cancer

Late radiation proctopathy is a painful and vexing complication of prostate radiation. We report a case of a 55-year-old man with prostate cancer, and complaints of tenesmus and severe rectal pain after radiation therapy. The patient was diagnosed with a locally advanced Gleason score 8 prostate cancer and an increased prostate-specific antigen of 42.3 ng/ml. His past medical history was notable for a history of bilateral lymph node dissection complicated by Clostridium difficile colitis. He subsequently received 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy. Seven months after completing therapy, minor rectal bleeding and significant pain developed, requiring increasing doses of opioid analgesics. Fourteen months after 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy, sigmoidoscopy revealed a single chronic deep ulcer at the anorectal junction. As an alternative to diverting colostomy, the patient underwent a course of hyperbaric oxygen. Within 1 month of completing hyperbaric oxygen treatment, his symptoms completely resolved. Nine months from completion of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, he has had no recurrence of symptoms. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be considered a treatment option after failure of standard treatments in patients with severe radiation proctopathy.

Acute and late gastrointestinal toxicity after radiotherapy in prostate cancer patients: consequential late damage

PURPOSE

Late gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity after radiotherapy can be partly explained by late effects of acute toxicity (consequential late damage). We studied whether there is a direct relationship between acute and late GI toxicity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 553 evaluable patients from the Dutch dose escalation trial (68 Gy vs. 78 Gy) were included. We defined three outcomes for acute reactions: 1) maximum Radiation Therapy Oncology Group acute toxicity, 2) maximum acute mucous discharge (AMD), and 3) maximum acute proctitis. Within a multivariable model, late endpoints (overall toxicity and five toxicity indicators) were studied as a function of acute toxicity, pretreatment symptoms, and relevant dose parameters.

RESULTS

At multivariable analysis, AMD and acute proctitis were strong predictors for overall toxicity, "intermittent bleeding," and "incontinence pads" (p < or = 0.01). For "stools > or =6/day" all three were strong predictors. No significant associations were found for "severe bleeding" and "use of steroids." The predictive power of the dose parameters remained at the same level or became weaker for most late endpoints.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute GI toxicity is an independent significant predictor of late GI toxicity. This suggests a significant consequential component in the development of late GI toxicity.

Rectal bleeding, fecal incontinence, and high stool frequency after conformal radiotherapy for prostate cancer: normal tissue complication probability modeling

PURPOSE

To analyze whether inclusion of predisposing clinical features in the Lyman-Kutcher-Burman (LKB) normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) model improves the estimation of late gastrointestinal toxicity.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This study includes 468 prostate cancer patients participating in a randomized trial comparing 68 with 78 Gy. We fitted the probability of developing late toxicity within 3 years (rectal bleeding, high stool frequency, and fecal incontinence) with the original, and a modified LKB model, in which a clinical feature (e.g., history of abdominal surgery) was taken into account by fitting subset specific TD50s. The ratio of these TD50s is the dose-modifying factor for that clinical feature. Dose distributions of anorectal (bleeding and frequency) and anal wall (fecal incontinence) were used.

RESULTS

The modified LKB model gave significantly better fits than the original LKB model. Patients with a history of abdominal surgery had a lower tolerance to radiation than did patients without previous surgery, with a dose-modifying factor of 1.1 for bleeding and of 2.5 for fecal incontinence. The dose-response curve for bleeding was approximately two times steeper than that for frequency and three times steeper than that for fecal incontinence.

CONCLUSIONS

Inclusion of predisposing clinical features significantly improved the estimation of the NTCP. For patients with a history of abdominal surgery, more severe dose constraints should therefore be used during treatment plan optimization.

Localized volume effects for late rectal and anal toxicity after radiotherapy for prostate cancer

PURPOSE

To identify dosimetric parameters derived from anorectal, rectal, and anal wall dose distributions that correlate with different late gastrointestinal (GI) complications after three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

In this analysis, 641 patients from a randomized trial (68 Gy vs. 78 Gy) were included. Toxicity was scored with adapted Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (RTOG/EORTC) criteria and five specific complications. The variables derived from dose-volume histogram of anorectal, rectal, and anal wall were as follows: % receiving > or =5-70 Gy (V5-V70), maximum dose (Dmax), and mean dose (D(mean)). The anus was defined as the most caudal 3 cm of the anorectum. Statistics were done with multivariate Cox regression models. Median follow-up was 44 months.

RESULTS

Anal dosimetric variables were associated with RTOG/EORTC Grade > or =2 (V5-V40, D(mean)) and incontinence (V5-V70, D(mean)). Bleeding correlated most strongly with anorectal V55-V65, and stool frequency with anorectal V40 and D(mean). Use of steroids was weakly related to anal variables. No volume effect was seen for RTOG/EORTC Grade > or =3 and pain/cramps/tenesmus.

CONCLUSION

Different volume effects were found for various late GI complications. Therefore, to evaluate the risk of late GI toxicity, not only intermediate and high doses to the anorectal wall volume should be taken into account, but also the dose to the anal wall.

Percutaneous-guided pain control: exploiting the neural basis of pain sensation

The gastroenterologist deals frequently with painful conditions and suffering patients. Performing regular pain assessments and applying basic pain medicine principles will augment the care of patients in pain. Percutaneous-guided pain therapy techniques play a role in the multidisciplinary approach to pain medicine. Systemic opioid analgesia is the primary means of controlling cancer pain. However, 10% to 15% of cancer patients may need additional interventions to control pain. Sympathetic ganglion nerve blocks with neurolytic agents such as alcohol or phenol are reserved mostly for cancer pain. The efficacy and safety of these tools are validated by several decades of clinical application and published studies. Although the procedures are operator-dependent, in the hands of experienced clinicians, patients achieve sustained relief in the majority of cases. Although these techniques have been attempted in some benign conditions,such as chronic pancreatitis, with limited success, studies of newer imaging localization techniques such as endoscopic ultrasonography may expand future indications. Patients of the gastroenterologist who experience malignant abdominal pain may benefit from referral for percutaneous-guided pain control techniques.

The radiation-induced changes in rectal mucosa: Hyperfractionated vs. hypofractionated preoperative radiation for rectal cancer

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of acute radiation-induced rectal changes in patients who underwent preoperative radiotherapy according to two different irradiation protocols.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty-eight patients with rectal adenocarcinoma underwent preoperative radiotherapy; 44 and 24 patients underwent hyperfractionated and hypofractionated protocol, respectively. Fifteen patients treated with surgery alone served as a control group. Five basic histopathologic features (meganucleosis, inflammatory infiltrations, eosinophils, mucus secretion, and erosions) and two additional features (mitotic figures and architectural glandular abnormalities) of radiation-induced changes were qualified and quantified.

RESULTS

Acute radiation-induced reactions were found in 66 patients. The most common were eosinophilic and plasma-cell inflammatory infiltrations (65 patients), erosions, and decreased mucus secretion (54 patients). Meganucleosis and mitotic figures were more common in patients who underwent hyperfractionated radiotherapy. The least common were the glandular architectural distortions, especially in patients treated with hypofractionated radiotherapy. Statistically significant differences in morphologic parameters studied between groups treated with different irradiation protocols were found.

CONCLUSION

The system of assessment is a valuable tool in the evaluation of radiation-induced changes in the rectal mucosa. A greater intensity of regenerative changes was found in patients treated with hyperfractionated radiotherapy.

Treatment of radiation proctitis with hyperbaric oxygen

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Radiation proctitis is a potential complication following pelvic radiation therapy. There are no standard treatments and treatment outcomes are unpredictable. We report our experience with the use of hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) for radiation proctitis cases refractory to standard medical or laser therapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

During the period 2000-2004, 10 patients with radiation proctitis were treated with HBOT (three males and seven females; mean age of 65). The median follow-up period was 25 months (range 6-43 months). Patient symptoms were retrospectively scored prior to, and following HBOT, based on the LENT-SOMA scale.

RESULTS

Prior to treatment, three patients had Grade 3 toxicity (i.e. requiring blood transfusions) and seven had Grade 2 toxicity with dominant symptoms of rectal pain and/or diarrhoea. HBOT was well tolerated and 9 of the 10 patients completed a full HBOT treatment program. Rectal bleeding completely stopped in four of nine symptomatic patients and improved in three others. Rectal pain completely remitted in three of five symptomatic patients. Diarrhea remitted completely in one of five patients and improved in three others. Of the 10 patients treated, only two did not respond to HBOT.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant improvement of rectal bleeding, diarrhea and rectal pain is possible using HBOT. HBOT should be offered to patients who fail conventional treatments for radiation proctitis.

Delayed rectal and urinary symptomatology in patients treated for prostate cancer by radiotherapy with or without short term neo-adjuvant androgen deprivation

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To identify contributing factors to delayed rectal and urinary symptoms in a randomised trial comparing different durations of maximal androgen deprivation (MAD), given prior to radiotherapy, for locally advanced prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1996 and 2000, 818 patients with stages T2b,c, 3 and 4 prostate cancer were entered into a trial comparing 0, 3 and 6 months of MAD prior to and during radiotherapy. Their delayed normal tissue effects were recorded by their treating doctors using standardised scales and by the patients using a self-assessment questionnaire regularly. Time to occurrence and prevalence data were analysed.

RESULTS

Rectal and urinary symptom levels were observed to vary markedly over time in at least 80% of patients, with some indicating lasting resolution of symptoms. Prevalence rates were found to be substantially lower than actuarial probability rates. Baseline symptom levels and greatest acute symptom levels were both very powerful predictors. Obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms were noted to improve during the first 4 years after radiotherapy in approximately 60% of cases in each treatment arm. However, the treatment arm itself was not shown to influence these improvements in other univariate or multivariate analyses. MAD was shown to reduce both time to occurrence and prevalence of delayed proctopathic symptoms, but this effect was confirmed statistically in the 3 month treatment arm only. Multivariate models indicated that higher levels of haemoglobin prior to any treatment may in some way protect against delayed proctopathic symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence data provide more clinically meaningful estimates of risk of delayed effects in normal tissues where assessment relies substantially on reported symptom levels. In these tissues consideration of the impact of baseline symptom levels and pathologies, and greatest acute symptom levels in analyses of delayed effects appears mandatory. Obstructive lower urinary symptoms improve over several years in the majority of patients treated for locally advanced prostate cancer by radiotherapy. Future research could address whether rectal toxicity is affected by initial haemoglobin levels and declines in it due to MAD.

Phase III pilot study of dose escalation using conformal radiotherapy in prostate cancer: PSA control and side effects

Radical radiotherapy is a standard form of management of localised prostate cancer. Conformal treatment planning spares adjacent normal tissues reducing treatment-related side effects and may permit safe dose escalation. We have tested the effects on tumour control and side effects of escalating radiotherapy dose and investigated the appropriate target volume margin. After an initial 3-6 month period of androgen suppression, 126 men were randomised and treated with radiotherapy using a 2 by 2 factorial trial design. The initial radiotherapy tumour target volume included the prostate and base of seminal vesicles (SV) or complete SV depending on SV involvement risk. Treatments were randomised to deliver a dose of 64 Gy with either a 1.0 or 1.5 cm margin around the tumour volume (1.0 and 1.5 cm margin groups) and also to treat either with or without a 10 Gy boost to the prostate alone with no additional margin (64 and 74 Gy groups). Tumour control was monitored by prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and clinical examination with additional tests as appropriate. Acute and late side effects of treatment were measured using the Radiation Treatment and Oncology Groups (RTOG) and LENT SOM systems. The results showed that freedom from PSA failure was higher in the 74 Gy group compared to the 64 Gy group, but this did not reach conventional levels of statistical significance with 5-year actuarial control rates of 71% (95% CI 58-81%) in the 74 Gy group vs 59% (95% CI 45-70%) in the 64 Gy group. There were 23 failures in the 74 Gy group and 33 in the 64 Gy group (Hazard ratio 0.64, 95% CI 0.38-1.10, P=0.10). No difference in disease control was seen between the 1.0 and 1.5 cm margin groups (5-year actuarial control rates 67%, 95% CI 53-77% vs 63%, 95% CI 50-74%) with 28 events in each group (Hazard ratio 0.97, 95% CI 0.50-1.86, P=0.94). Acute side effects were generally mild and 18 weeks after treatment, only four and five of the 126 men had persistent > or =Grade 1 bowel or bladder side effects, respectively. Statistically significant increases in acute bladder side effects were seen after treatment in the men receiving 74 Gy (P=0.006), and increases in both acute bowel side effects during treatment (P=0.05) and acute bladder sequelae (P=0.002) were recorded for men in the 1.5 cm margin group. While statistically significant, these differences were of short duration and of doubtful clinical importance. Late bowel side effects (RTOG> or =2) were seen more commonly in the 74 Gy and 1.5 cm margin groups (P=0.02 and P=0.05, respectively) in the first 2 years after randomisation. Similar results were found using the LENT SOM assessments. No significant differences in late bladder side effects were seen between the randomised groups using the RTOG scoring system. Using the LENT SOM instrument, a higher proportion of men treated in the 74 Gy group had Grade > or =3 urinary frequency at 6 and 12 months. Compared to baseline scores, bladder symptoms improved after 6 months or more follow-up in all groups. Sexual function deteriorated after treatment with the number of men reporting some sexual dysfunction (Grade> or =1) increasing from 38% at baseline to 66% at 6 months and 1 year and 81% by year 5. However, no consistent differences were seen between the randomised groups. In conclusion, dose escalation from 64 to 74 Gy using conformal radiotherapy may improve long-term PSA control, but a treatment margin of 1.5 cm is unnecessary and is associated with increased acute bowel and bladder reactions and more late rectal side effects. Data from this randomised pilot study informed the Data Monitoring Committee of the Medical Research Council RT 01 Trial and the two studies will be combined in subsequent meta-analysis.

Faecal calprotectin and lactoferrin as markers of acute radiation proctitis: a pilot study of eight stool markers

BACKGROUND

Non-invasive diagnostic tools to evaluate the severity of acute, radiation-induced proctitis are not readily available. The faecal excretion of eight markers of gut inflammation was therefore examined. Five proteins and three lipid derivates were analysed in sequential stool samples taken before and during radiation therapy.

METHODS

Stool samples from 15 patients with prostate cancer scheduled for radiation therapy were examined. Pretreatment and in-treatment samples (2nd and 6th weeks) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (calprotectin, lactoferrin, transferrin, leukotriene B4, prostaglandin E2, thromboxane B2 and TNF alpha) or nephelometry (alpha 1-antitrypsin).

RESULTS

Calprotectin and lactoferrin concentrations increased significantly during radiation treatment (P = 0.0005 and P = 0.019). Transferrin was detected in only 9 out of 45 samples. There were no changes in tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), leukotriene B4, prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane B2 during treatment. alpha 1-antitrypsin could not be detected in any sample.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that faecal calprotectin and lactoferrin concentrations could be markers of acute, radiation-induced proctitis. Patient compliance and stability of the markers make this a promising method for clinical research. Eicosanoids could be measured in stool samples, but the concentrations did not increase with increasing radiation dose.

Gastro-intestinal and genito-urinary morbidity after 3D conformal radiotherapy of prostate cancer: observations of a randomized trial

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The late morbidity of a randomized study was analyzed after a follow up of 2 years. The difference in intestinal morbidity was analyzed as a function of the treatment arm and dose volume parameters. The correlation with acute toxicity and (pre-existing) bowel complaints was investigated.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

266 T1-4N0M0 prostate cancer patients were randomized for conventional (open fields) and 3D conformal radiotherapy using beams eye view blocked fields with the same dose (66 Gy) and gross target volume-planning target volume margin (15 mm). Apart from the RTOG toxicity scoring system a patient self-assessment questionnaire was used to obtain detailed information on morbidity.

RESULTS

At 2 years there is only a trend for less rectal toxicity (grade >/=1) in favor of the conformal radiotherapy (grade 1, 47 versus 40% and grade 2, 10 versus 7% for conventional and conformal radiotherapy, respectively (P=0.1). A significant relation was found between late rectal toxicity (grade >/=1) and the volume of the anus and rectum exposed to >/=90% tumor dose (TD). A highly significant relationship is observed between acute rectum and anal toxicity and late rectal toxicity. The patient self-assessment questionnaire analysis revealed that patients are most bothered by compliance related symptoms like urgency, soiling and fecal loss. In a multivariate analysis, all other variables loose significance, when anal volume exposed to >/=90% TD and pre-treatment defaecation frequency are accounted for. Late anal toxicity is low and related only to acute anal toxicity. Late bladder toxicity is related solely to pre-treatment frequency and overall urological symptoms. The incidence of grade 2 toxicity increases with a factor 2.5-4 when (stool or urine) frequency is unfavorable at the start of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Conformal radiotherapy at the dose level of 66 Gy does not significantly decrease the incidence of rectal, anal and bladder toxicity compared to conventional radiotherapy. There is a significant relationship between acute and late toxicity and the anal volume exposed to 90% TD. Intestinal (and urological) symptoms at start have a major impact on late toxicity.

Clinical effects in a cohort of cancer patients overexposed during external beam pelvic radiotherapy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical outcome of 28 overexposed cancer patients in a cohort of 153 treated with pelvic irradiation and to correlate the outcome with the doses received.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Between August 2000 and March 2001, 153 patients were treated at the Instituto Oncológico Nacional of Panama with radiotherapy for cancers of the cervix, uterus, endometrium, prostate, and rectum using conventional techniques. In 56 patients, irradiated with partially blocked teletherapy fields, the treatment times were determined using a treatment planning system that generated isodose distributions. The absorbed doses received by the patients were calculated and the biologically effective doses (BEDs) and 2-Gy equivalent doses derived. The clinical outcome was evaluated using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) and late effects on normal tissues-subjective, objective, management, analytic scales (LENT/SOMA). The relationships between clinical outcome and dose were investigated and compared with published data.

RESULTS

Of the 56 patients for whom treatment times were generated with the treatment planning system, 28 received some doses per fraction approximately double those prescribed. Using an alpha/beta = 10 Gy, the tumor BED(10) values ranged from 77 to 225 Gy. The rest of the patients received doses within 10% of the prescribed values. Seventeen of the 28 overexposed patients died 35 days to 21 months after treatment; 13 of the fatalities were caused by rectal complications. Survival was longer in those patients who had undergone colostomy. Bladder complications were less enhanced. The nonoverexposed patients with cervical cancer exhibited a greater incidence of treatment failures than generally reported in other centers.

CONCLUSION

This study provides the clinical outcome after high doses of pelvic radiotherapy in a range not previously well documented. For cervical cancer patients receiving both tele- and brachytherapy, some deaths in this overexposure cohort occurred from assumed consequential rectal injury within 2 years, when the BED(10) values exceeded 70-80 Gy. The incidence was asymptotic to 100% fatalities at >150 Gy. This confirmed and extended other data in the literature.