Faecal incontinence: A late side-effect of pelvic radiotherapy

Effects of surgery versus radiotherapy in patients with localized prostate cancer in terms of urinary, bowel, and sexual domains

BACKGROUND

The health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients with localized prostate cancer (LPCa) after treatment mainly surgery and radiotherapy (RT) has received increasing attention. The aim of this study is to compare the HRQoL of LPCa after surgery and RT.

METHODS

Web of Science, Embase, PubMed and Cochrane databases were searched after January 2000 to observe the HRQoL scores after surgery and RT at different treatment time points.

RESULTS

A total of 28 studies were included in this study, and the results showed that LPCa received surgery had better bowel scores than RT at ≤3 (weighted mean differences [WMD] = 4.18; p = 0.03), 3-6 (WMD = 4.16; p < 0.001), 6-12 (WMD = 2.99; p = 0.004), 24-60 (WMD = 1.87; p = 0.06), and ≥60 (WMD = 4.54; p = 0.02) months. However, LPCa received RT had higher urinary scores at ≤3 (WMD = -7.39; p = 0.02), 3-6 (WMD = -6.03; p = 0.02), 6-12 (WMD = -4.90; p < 0.001), 24-60 (WMD = -3.96; p < 0.001), ≥60 (WMD = -2.95; p < 0.001) months and had better sexual scores at ≤3 (WMD = -13.58; p = 0.09), 3-6 (WMD = -12.32; p = 0.06), 6-12 (WMD = -12.03; p = 0.002), 24-60 (WMD = -11.29; p < 0.001), and ≥60 (WMD = -3.10; p = 0.46) months than surgery. The scores difference between surgery and RT decreased over time.

CONCLUSION

Overall, for LPCa, surgery was associated with better HRQoL in the bowel domain, whereas RT was associated with better HRQoL in the urinary and sexual domains, with the difference between surgery and RT narrowing over time.

The impact of brachytherapy boost for anal canal cancers in the era of de-escalation treatments

PURPOSE

To analyze clinical outcomes of high-dose-rate (HDR) interstitial brachytherapy boost (ISBT) after external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) or chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for the treatment of anal canal cancers (ACC).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A total of 78 patients with ACC were treated at our institution by ISBT. Local Control (LC), disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), colostomy-free survival (CFS) and toxicity rates were analyzed.

RESULTS

With a median followup (FU) of 59.8 months (95% CI [55.8-64.2]), six (7.7%) local recurrences with 2 patients (2.6%) having persistent disease at 3 months were observed. The 5-year rate of LC for the entire population was 92% [83-96%]. The 5-year DFS rate was 86% [76-93%]. The 5-year OS was 96% [88-99%]. In the univariate analysis, chemotherapy was significantly associated with morbidity grade ≥2. Late digestive toxicity grade ≥3 was reported in 8.9% patients, 1 patient underwent colostomy due to toxicity. The 5-year CFS rate was 88% [79-94%].

CONCLUSIONS

HDR interstitial brachytherapy boost provide excellent rates of tumor control and colostomy-free survival with a favorable profile of GI toxicity. Continence in anal cancer survivors is a challenge and the boost technique must be discussed in a multidisciplinary approach as part of de-escalation treatments.

Comparative analysis of toxicity in patients with anal cancer undergoing definitive simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) or sequential integrated boost (SeqB) radiotherapy

PURPOSE

To compare toxicity of radiotherapy (RT) with concomitant chemotherapy (CHT) in patients (pts) with anal cancer treated with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) versus sequential boost (SeqB).

METHODS

Sixty-six patients were treated from 2007 to 2021. Thirty patients underwent to SeqB concurrent to CHT and 37 to SIB-group. Toxicity assessment has been considered in acute and in late toxicities for gastrointestinal (GI), genitourinary (GU), cutaneous (CU) districts, according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), Version 5.0. The Wexner scale among summary scoring systems has been used as a tool to measure fecal incontinence. The chi-square test for ordinal variables were used to evaluate the association between patient and treatment characteristics and acute or late severe toxicity. Univariable logistic regression models were fit to evaluate predictive factors associated with fecal incontinence.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 61.5 months (IQR, 27.1-121.7 months) for all patients. Severe acute toxicity (≥ G2) was observed in 49 patients (74.2%). Late toxicity (≥ G2) occurred in 13 cases (19.6%). In assessment of cutaneous toxicity, there was also a significant reduction in ≥ G1 in SIB group with 29 patients (80.5%) vs SeqB group with 29 patients (96.6%) (p-value = 0.046). Of both groups 11 patients (16.6%) developed fecal incontinence, 8 (22%) in the SIB group and 3 (10%) in the SeqB.

CONCLUSION

SIB for anal cancer treatment results in reduced acute and late cutaneous toxicity compared to SeqB. According to our results the rate of other acute and late toxicities are low and comparable between the two groups.

Effect of Neoadjuvant Therapy on the Functional Outcome of Patients With Rectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

AIMS

The impact of neoadjuvant therapy on the functional outcome of patients with resectable rectal cancer is still controversial. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of neoadjuvant therapy on anorectal function (ARF), urinary function and sexual function in relevant patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library were searched systematically. All English-language studies, published from January 2000 to July 2021, that explored the (postoperative) effects of neoadjuvant therapy versus upfront surgery on ARF, urinary function and sexual function of patients were included (PROSPERO 2021: CRD42021281617).

RESULTS

The data in this study were derived from 37 articles based on 33 studies; in total, 17 917 patients were enrolled. The meta-analysis revealed that the incidence of anorectal dysfunction in the neoadjuvant therapy group was significantly higher than that in the group of upfront surgery, which was manifested by a higher incidence of major low anterior resection syndrome (odds ratio = 3.09, 95% confidence interval = 2.48, 3.84; P < 0.001), reduction of mean squeeze pressure and mean resting pressure, and other manifestations, including clustering of stools, incontinence, urgency and use of pads. With the extension of follow-up time, the adverse effects of neoadjuvant therapy on major low anterior resection syndrome existed. Compared with patients undergoing upfront surgery, neoadjuvant therapy increased the risk of urinary incontinence (odds ratio = 1.31, 95% confidence interval = 1.00, 1.72; P = 0.05) and erectile dysfunction (odds ratio = 1.77, 95% confidence interval = 1.27, 2.45; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Compared with upfront surgery, neoadjuvant therapy is not only associated with impairment of ARF, but also with increased incidence of urinary incontinence and male erectile dysfunction. However, the influence of confounding factors (e.g. surgical method, tumour stage) needs to be considered.

Bowel dysfunction following pelvic organ cancer: a prospective study on the treatment effect in nurse-led late sequelae clinics

BACKGROUND

Bowel dysfunction following treatment of pelvic organ cancer is prevalent and impacts the quality of life (QoL). The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effects of treating bowel dysfunction in two nurse-led late sequelae clinics.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Treatment effects were monitored prospectively by patient-reported outcome measures collected at baseline and discharge. Change in bowel function was evaluated by 15 bowel symptoms, the St. Mark's Incontinence Score, the Patients Assessment of Constipation-Symptoms (PAC-SYM) score and self-rated bowel function. QoL was evaluated by the EuroQol 5-dimension 5-level (EQ-5D-5L) utility score and by measuring the impact of bowel function on QoL.

RESULTS

From June 2018 to December 2021, 380 cancer survivors (46% rectal, 15% gynaecological, 13% anal, 12% colon, 12% prostate, and 2% other cancers) completed a baseline questionnaire and started treatment for bowel dysfunction. At referral, 96% of patients were multisymptomatic. The most frequent symptoms were faecal urgency (95%), fragmented defaecation (93%), emptying difficulties (92%), flatus/faecal incontinence (flatus 89%, liquid 59%, solid 33%), and obstructed defaecation (79%). In total, 169 patients were discharged from the clinics in the follow-up period. At discharge, 69% received conservative treatment only and 24% also received transanal irrigation; 4% were surgically treated; 3% discontinued treatment. Improvements were seen in all 15 bowel symptoms (p < 0.001), the mean St. Mark's Incontinence Score (12.0 to 9.9, p < 0.001), the mean PAC-SYM score (1.04 to 0.84, p < 0.001) and the mean EQ-5D-5L utility score (0.78 to 0.84, p < 0.001). Self-rated bowel function improved in 56% (p < 0.001) of cases and the impact of bowel function on QoL improved in 46% (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Treatment of bowel dysfunction in nurse-led late sequelae clinics is feasible and significantly improved bowel function and QoL.

Evaluation of the learning curve for conformal sphincter preservation operation in the treatment of ultralow rectal cancer

Background

To investigate the learning curve of conformal sphincter preservation operation (CSPO) in the treatment of ultralow rectal cancer and to further explore the influencing factors of operation time.

Methods

From August 2011 to April 2020, 108 consecutive patients with ultralow rectal cancer underwent CSPO by the same surgeon in the Department of Colorectal Surgery of Changhai Hospital. The moving average and cumulative sum control chart (CUSUM) curve were used to analyze the learning curve. The preoperative clinical baseline data, postoperative pathological data, postoperative complications, and survival data were compared before and after the completion of learning curve. The influencing factors of CSPO operation time were analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

According to the results of moving average and CUSUM method, CSPO learning curve was divided into learning period (1–45 cases) and learning completion period (46–108 cases). There was no significant difference in preoperative clinical baseline data, postoperative pathological data, postoperative complications, and survival data between the two stages. Compared with the learning period, the operation time (P < 0.05), blood loss (P < 0.05), postoperative flatus and defecation time (P < 0.05), liquid diet time (P < 0.05), and postoperative hospital stay (P < 0.05) in the learning completion period were significantly reduced, and the difference was statistically significant. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that distance of tumor from anal verge (≥ 4cm vs. < 4cm, P = 0.039) and T stage (T3 vs. T1-2, P = 0.022) was independent risk factors for prolonging the operation time of CSPO.

Conclusions

For surgeons with laparoscopic surgery experience, about 45 cases of CSPO are needed to cross the learning curve. At the initial stage of CSPO, beginners are recommended to select patients with ultralow rectal cancer whose distance of tumor from anal verge is less than 4 cm and tumor stage is less than T3 for practice, which can enable beginners to reduce the operation time, accumulate experience, build self-confidence, and shorten the learning curve on the premise of safety.

Severity and persistency of late gastrointestinal morbidity in locally advanced cervical cancer: lessons learned from EMBRACE-I and implications for the future

PURPOSE

To evaluate patient- and treatment-related risk factors for physician-assessed and patient-reported gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms after radio(chemo)therapy and image guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) in locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Of 1416 patients from the XXX study, 1199 and 1002 were prospectively evaluated using physician-assessed (CTCAE) and patient-reported (EORTC) GI symptoms, respectively. CTCAE severe grade (G≥3) events were pooled according to the location in the GI tract (anus/rectum, sigmoid and colon/small bowel). CTCAE G≥2 and EORTC "very much" and "quite a bit"+"very much" scores (≥"quite a bit") were analyzed for individual symptoms with Cox regression. Logistic regression was used for persistent G≥1 and EORTC ≥"quite a bit" symptoms, defined if present in at least half of follow-ups.

RESULTS

Incidence of G≥3 events was 2.8%, 1.8% and 2.3% for G≥3 anus/rectum, sigmoid and colon/small bowel events, respectively. Among G≥2 symptoms, diarrhea and flatulence were the most prevalent (8.4% and 9.9%, respectively). Among patient-related factors, baseline morbidity, increasing age, smoking status and low body-mass-index were associated to GI symptoms with different impact. Among treatment-related factors, rectum D_2cm3 and ICRU recto-vaginal reference point (RV-RP) correlated with G≥3 anus/rectum events, and moderate/persistent diarrhea, proctitis, bleeding, abdominal cramps and difficulty in bowel control. Bowel D_2cm3 correlated with G≥3 sigmoid and colon/small bowel events, and moderate/persistent diarrhea and flatulence. For external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), prescription dose correlated with G≥3 anus/rectum, diarrhea and difficulty in bowel control. Patients with large lymph-node boost (V57Gy) were at higher risk for G≥3 sigmoid events, moderate/persistent diarrhea, proctitis and cramps.

CONCLUSION

The analysis showed that both EBRT and IGABT contribute to GI symptoms after LACC treatment. Rectum D_2cm3, ICRU RV-RP and bowel D_2cm3 are risk factors for GI morbidity. The risk for various symptoms was lower with an EBRT prescription of 45Gy than 50Gy, and increased with larger V57Gy.

Genetically modified bacteria for targeted phototherapy of tumor

Live attenuated bacteria have been used as target vehicles for genetic therapy of malignant carcinoma because they can be reprogrammed by following simple genetic rules and have the ability to target tumor hypoxic region. In this research, noninvasive Escherichia coli (E. Coli) is genetically modified through the plasmid transfection to afford E. Coli(p) with overexpressed human catalase for catalyzing H₂O₂ into O₂ in the tumor site. The produced O₂ is consequently converted to cytotoxic ¹O₂ under near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation for photodynamic therapy. Chlorin e6 (Ce6) is chosen as the photosensitizer for its excellent photodynamic ability, and polydopamine (pDA) is employed to encapsulate Ce6 for its good biosafety, photothermal ability, and adhesion capacity with bacteria. Dopamine polymerizes in the presence of Ce6 to form pDA/Ce6, and then E. Coli(p) is coated with pDA/Ce6 to afford the final E. Coli(p)/pDA/Ce6. The obtained system is intravenously administrated for selective accumulation and replication in the hypoxic tumor. NIR light irradiation is introduced to enable photothermal and O₂-enhanced photodynamic therapy. On account of complementary combination, the system exhibits efficient antitumor effect in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the integration of genetically modified bacteria with pDA/Ce6 presents a promising application potential for precise tumor inhibition.

Effect of Kegel exercises on the prevention of urinary and fecal incontinence in patients with prostate cancer undergoing radiotherapy

PURPOSE

This is a nonrandomized experimental study conducted to evaluate the effect of Kegel exercises on the prevention of urinary and fecal incontinence in prostate cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

METHOD

The study was conducted with 30 patients in the intervention group (IG) and 30 patients in the control group (CG). Data were collected using a patient information form, CTCAE, EORTC QLQ-C30, and a follow-up form reporting weekly Kegel exercises. Before radiotherapy, the IG was provided with Kegel exercise training via visual training material; exercises were performed under the supervision of the researcher, and the exercise pamphlet was handed out. During radiotherapy, weekly follow-ups were performed by face-to-face contact or phone calls. No similar application was provided to the CG. CTCAE and EORTC QLQ-C30 were evaluated three times (baseline, 4th and 8th weeks of exercises).

RESULTS

At the end of the 4th week of exercises, 1st-grade urinary incontinence (UI) developed in the IG (10%) and in the CG (13.3%). At the end of the 8th week, 2nd-grade UI (3.3%) developed in the IG and 1st-grade (10%) and 2nd-grade UI (6.7%) developed in the CG. Fecal incontinence developed in neither group. At the end of the intervention, there was a significant improvement in Role, Social function and Global Health Status in the IG compared with the 4th week scores. In addition, less Fatigue, Diarrhea, Anorexia and Constipation scores were found compared with the baseline.

CONCLUSION

Kegel exercises can be recommended as an approach in the prevention of urinary incontinence and to improve quality of life.

A Pilot Study Evaluating the Effectiveness of Biofeedback-Based Anal Strengthening Exercises in Treating Radiotherapy-Related Faecal Incontinence

Purpose

Radiotherapy to the pelvis and especially the anal sphincters can result in long-term faecal incontinence. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of biofeedback anal strengthening exercises in radiotherapy-related faecal incontinence.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed on seven patients with radiotherapy-related faecal incontinence. Education and biofeedback based anal strengthening exercises were provided. Baseline and follow-up measurements were performed assessing anal sphincter fatigue time, resting, squeeze, and cough pressure. Continence scores and quality of life measures were assessed. Patients were followed up at five months.

Results

The radiotherapy target varied between prostate, uterus, and rectum. Four of the seven patients were female. Pescatori (0-10) and St Mark’s (0-10) continence scores had a median improvement of 2 (range 0-5) and 1 (range 0-8) respectively. Self-completed patient continence scores (0-10mm) had a median improvement of 2mm (1-6mm). Anal fatigue time measurements (Isotonic Fatigue Time (seconds) and Isometric Fatigue Time (Cycles)) showed a median improvement of three seconds (-4 - 36 seconds) and three seconds (-1 - 6 seconds), respectively. Resting Pressure (mmHg), Squeeze Pressure (mmHg) and Cough Pressure (mmHg) showed median improvement of 10mmHg (-10-21mmHg), 15mmHg (-16 - 100mmHg) and 21mmHg (-3 - 53mmHg), respectively. Patient-defined quality of life (QOL) measures showed a median change of 0.2 (range 0-0.5).

Conclusion

Patients in this pilot study with radiotherapy-related faecal incontinence had improved anal pressure metrics, continence, and QOL following biofeedback based anal strengthening exercises. These early results suggest a benefit for anal strengthening in patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy.

The Effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle Interventions on Pelvic Floor Dysfunction After Gynecological Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review was to identify, evaluate, and synthesize the evidence from studies that have investigated the effect of nonsurgical, nonpharmacological, pelvic floor muscle interventions on any type of pelvic floor dysfunction or health-related quality of life in patients after any type of treatment for gynecological cancer.

METHODS

Six electronic databases (Cochrane Library 2018, CINAHL 1982-2018, MEDLINE 1950-2018, EMBASE 1980-2018, PsycINFO 1806-2018, and EMCARE 1995-2018) were systematically searched in June 2018. Reference lists of identified articles were hand searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and case series were included if they investigated the effects of conservative treatments, including pelvic floor muscle training or dilator training, on bladder, bowel, or sexual function in patients who had received treatment for gynecological cancer. Risk of bias was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale for RCTs and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for cohort studies.

RESULTS

Five RCTs and 2 retrospective cohort studies were included (n = 886). The results provided moderate-level evidence that pelvic floor muscle training with counseling and yoga or core exercises were beneficial for sexual function (standardized mean difference = -0.96, 95% CI = -1.22 to -0.70, I2 = 0%) and health-related quality of life (standardized mean difference = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.38 to 0.88, I2 = 0%) in survivors of cervical cancer and very low-level evidence that dilator therapy reduced vaginal complications in survivors of cervical and uterine cancer (odds ratio = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.17 to 0.80, I2 = 54%). There were insufficient data for meta-analysis of bladder or bowel function.

CONCLUSION

Conservative pelvic floor muscle interventions may be beneficial for improving sexual function and health-related quality of life in survivors of gynecological cancer. Given the levels of evidence reported in this review, further high-quality studies are needed, especially to investigate effects on bladder and bowel function.

IMPACT

This review provides moderate-level evidence for the role of pelvic floor rehabilitation to improve health outcomes in the gynecological cancer survivorship journey. Clinicians and health service providers should consider how to provide cancer survivors the opportunity to participate in supervised pelvic floor rehabilitation programs.

Effects of gamma-irradiation on antibiotic resistance and diagnostic molecular markers of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Egyptian cancer patients

Purpose: This in-vitro study aimed to assess in 120 [40 community-acquired (CA-MRSA) & 80 hospital-acquired (HA-MRSA)] isolates from cancer patients whether the transmissible staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) typing, and the Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) virulence genes detection could be employed as tools for molecular diagnostic purposes to distinguish both methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) categories in radiotherapy treated cancer patients.Materials and methods: SCCmec typing was determined by the combination of the type of the cassette chromosome recombinase genes (ccr) gene complex and the class of the methicillin resistance (mec) gene complex. Besides, a rapid slide latex agglutination test (LAT) and antibiotic resistance spectrum determination before and after irradiation were performed.Results: In the strict sense, with the effect of irradiation; the presence of SCCmec subtypes IVa (22.5% vs. 10.0%), b (47.5% vs. 25.0%), & d (7.5 vs. 2.5%) or type V (15.0% vs. 7.5%) genetic elements and PVL genes (p < .001) were not proved as a signature for CA-MRSA. While, the larger SCCmec types II, and III elements were not detected in 14, and 19 from the 38, and 36 typed HA-MRSA isolates (p < .001), respectively. Remarkable effects on class A & class B mec gene complex and type2, type 3 & type 5 ccr gene complex and an increase in agglutination reaction strength in response to gamma irradiation external stimulus were observed.Conclusions: Different heterogeneous genetic composition with upregulation mecA gene expression was detected after irradiation in the HA- MRSA studied population. CA-MRSA showed remarkable ability to acquire multi-antibiotic resistance after irradiation and propose a novel paradigm for future chemotherapy against the multi-resistant pathogens whose proliferation especially among immunocompromised cancer patients is on the increase.

MRI anatomy and pathology of the anal canal

The normal function of the anal sphincter complex is crucial for quality of life, as it is the mechanism by which fecal continence is maintained. Additionally, the anal sphincter complex is an integral part of the coordinated effort of defecation. As imaging plays an important role in assessment of pathologic conditions involving the anal region, understanding the normal anatomy of the anal sphincter complex is important for correct image interpretation and accurate diagnosis. This review discusses the anatomy and function of the anal sphincter complex, important technical considerations for MRI, and various inflammatory, infectious, and neoplastic processes, as well as pathologic structural conditions that affect the anal region. Level of Evidence: 5 Technical Efficacy Stage: 3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1018-1032.

Assessment of acute bowel function after radiotherapy for prostate cancer: Is it accurate enough?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Pelvic radiotherapy for prostate cancer can be associated with bowel toxicity, which may have a significant impact on quality of life. Our aim was to assess the adequacy of the tools currently used to assess bowel symptoms after radiotherapy, including physician and patient reported outcomes. This sub-study on acute toxicity was part of a prospective trial assessing long-term bowel dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between February 2013 and July 2015, 75 patients with prostate cancer who received radiotherapy completed the LENT/SOMA and the EPIC questionnaires baseline and 2 weeks after the treatment. The Bristol stool scale and two additional questions on faecal urgency were added. Physicians assessed toxicity using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v.4.0. Agreement between patients and clinicians was assessed using the Cohen's κ coefficient.

RESULTS

Acute toxicity during radiotherapy was very low. The pattern of overall bowel bother was similar before and after treatment. Faecal urgency significantly increased after radiotherapy compared to baseline but was only detected by the additional questions and not by the physicians or the patient-reported outcomes (PRO) questionnaires. Correlation between physician and PRO was poor for most symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Bowel symptoms such as urgency may remain undetected by usual tools to assess toxicity after radiotherapy. Assessment of bowel toxicity should be reappraised in order to identify those patients who may have symptoms with an impact on their quality of life.

Defecation into clothing without forewarning and mean radiation dose to bowel and anal-sphincter among gynecological cancer survivors

BACKGROUND

To analyze the relationship between mean radiation dose to the bowels and the anal-sphincter and occurrence of 'defecation into clothing without forewarning', a specific and serious fecal incontinence symptom after gynecological radiotherapy. Additional potential risk factors associated with the symptom are explored.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data were collected for 519 eligible gynecological cancer survivors, treated with pelvic radiotherapy, with a median follow-up of 5.8 years, using a study-specific questionnaire and medical records. Correlations between defecation into clothing without forewarning and mean dose to organs at risk; the anal-sphincter region, the rectum, the sigmoid and the small intestines were investigated, also taking other risk factors into account.

RESULTS

Twelve percent reported having had the symptom at least once in the preceding six months. Mean doses >50 Gy to the anal-sphincter region, the rectum, the sigmoid and the small intestines were related to the occurrence of the symptom. Significantly associated risk factors were deliveries with high birth weight, heart failure and lactose and/or gluten intolerance. After adjusting for these factors, mean doses >50 Gy to the anal-sphincter region, the sigmoid and the small intestines remained related to the occurrence of the symptom.

CONCLUSION

Mean doses to the bowels and anal-sphincter region are related to the risk of defecation into clothing without forewarning in long-term gynecological cancer survivors treated with pelvic radiotherapy. Further radiobiological modeling may distinguish which organ(s) contribute most to development of the symptom.

The Three-item ALERT-B Questionnaire Provides a Validated Screening Tool to Detect Chronic Gastrointestinal Symptoms after Pelvic Radiotherapy in Cancer Survivors

AIMS

Although pelvic radiotherapy is an effective treatment for various malignancies, around half of patients develop significant gastrointestinal problems. These symptoms often remain undetected, despite the existence of effective treatments. This study developed and refined a simple screening tool to detect common gastrointestinal symptoms in outpatient clinics. These symptoms have a significant effect on quality of life. This tool will increase detection rates and so enable access to specialist gastroenterologists, which will in turn lead to improved symptom control and quality of life after treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature review and expert consensus meeting identified four items for the ALERT-B (Assessment of Late Effects of RadioTherapy - Bowel) screening tool. ALERT-B was face tested for its usability and acceptability using cognitive interviews with 12 patients experiencing late gastrointestinal symptoms after pelvic radiotherapy. Thematic analysis and probe category were used to analyse interview transcripts. Interview data were presented to a group of experts to agree on the final content and format of the tool. ALERT-B was assessed for reliability and tested for validity against the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale in a clinical study (EAGLE).

RESULTS

Overall, the tool was found to be acceptable in terms of wording, response format and completion time. Participant-reported experiences, including lifestyle modifications and the psychological effect of the symptoms, led to further modifications of the tool. The refined tool includes three questions covering rectal bleeding, incontinence, nocturnal bowel movements and impact on quality of life, including mood, relationships and socialising. ALERT-B was successfully validated against the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale in the EAGLE study with the tool shown broadly to be internally consistent (Cronbach's α = 0.61 and all item-subscale correlation [Spearman] coefficients are > 0.6).

CONCLUSION

The ALERT-B screening tool can be used in clinical practice to improve post-treatment supportive care by triggering the clinical assessment of patients suitable for referral to a gastroenterologist.

Influence of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy on the anal sphincter: ultrastructural damage may be critical

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) in addition to the curative surgery has been the first of treatment for local advanced rectal cancer because of its benefits in local recurrence and sphincter-saving. However, its side effects on anorectal function have been recognized. The histopathological changes on internal anal sphincter (IAS) have been reported, but ultrastructure changes of external anal sphincter (EAS) are unknown. The aim of this study is to detect the alterations on the gross morphology of IAS and ultrastructure of EAS after nCRT.

METHODS

We collected 34 anal canal specimens of patients undergoing abdominoperineal resection (APR) prospectively. The length and thickness of IAS were measured with vernier caliper. The EAS was dissected for observation with transmission electron microscope (TEM).

RESULTS

Ten patients received nCRT (nCRT group) before surgery and 24 underwent APR directly (control group). The length and thickness of IAS in nCRT group were 22.68 ± 3.56 and 5.39 ± 0.74 mm, respectively. These parameters were 21.28 ± 3.62 and 5.35 ± 1.12 mm in control group, respectively. There were no significant differences in the length and thickness of IAS between the two groups (P>0.05). In nCRT group, the sarcomere and myofibril were arranged disorderly and parts of them that were filled with collagenous fiber, triads, and mitochondria were destroyed severely and the glycogenosome also distributed disorderly. Such alterations of EAS did not occur in control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The nCRT cannot change the gross morphology of IAS, while it induces serious damages to the ultrastructures of EAS which may adversely affect the anorectal function.

Non-surgical interventions for late rectal problems (proctopathy) of radiotherapy in people who have received radiotherapy to the pelvis

BACKGROUND

This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2002, and previously updated in 2007. Late radiation rectal problems (proctopathy) include bleeding, pain, faecal urgency, and incontinence and may develop after pelvic radiotherapy treatment for cancer.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of non-surgical interventions for managing late radiation proctopathy.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (Issue 11, 2015); MEDLINE (Ovid); EMBASE (Ovid); CANCERCD; Science Citation Index; and CINAHL from inception to November 2015.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing non-surgical interventions for the management of late radiation proctopathy in people with cancer who have undergone pelvic radiotherapy for cancer. Primary outcomes considered were: episodes of bowel activity, bleeding, pain, tenesmus, urgency, and sphincter dysfunction.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Study selection, 'Risk of bias' assessment, and data extraction were performed in duplicate, and any disagreements were resolved by involving a third review author.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 1221 unique references and 16 studies including 993 participants that met our inclusion criteria. One study found through the last update was moved to the 'Studies awaiting classification' section. We did not pool outcomes for a meta-analysis due to variation in study characteristics and endpoints across included studies.Since radiation proctopathy is a condition with various symptoms or combinations of symptoms, the studies were heterogeneous in their intended effect. Some studies investigated treatments targeted at bleeding only (group 1), some investigated treatments targeted at a combination of anorectal symptoms, but not a single treatment (group 2). The third group focused on the treatment of the collection of symptoms referred to as pelvic radiation disease. In order to enable some comparison of this heterogeneous collection of studies, we describe the effects in these three groups separately.Nine studies assessed treatments for rectal bleeding and were unclear or at high risk of bias. The only treatments that made a significant difference on primary outcomes were argon plasma coagulation (APC) followed by oral sucralfate versus APC with placebo (endoscopic score 6 to 9 in favour of APC with placebo, risk ratio (RR) 2.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12 to 4.55; 1 study, 122 participants, low- to moderate-quality evidence); formalin dab treatment (4%) versus sucralfate steroid retention enema (symptom score after treatment graded by the Radiation Proctopathy System Assessments Scale (RPSAS) and sigmoidoscopic score in favour of formalin (P = 0.001, effect not quantified, 1 study, 102 participants, very low- to low-quality evidence), and colonic irrigation plus ciprofloxacin and metronidazole versus formalin application (4%) (bleeding (P = 0.007, effect not quantified), urgency (P = 0.0004, effect not quantified), and diarrhoea (P = 0.007, effect not quantified) in favour of colonic irrigation (1 study, 50 participants, low-quality evidence).Three studies, of unclear and high risk of bias, assessed treatments targeted at something very localised but not a single pathology. We identified no significant differences on our primary outcomes. We graded all studies as very low-quality evidence due to unclear risk of bias and very serious imprecision.Four studies, of unclear and high risk of bias, assessed treatments targeted at more than one symptom yet confined to the anorectal region. Studies that demonstrated an effect on symptoms included: gastroenterologist-led algorithm-based treatment versus usual care (detailed self help booklet) (significant difference in favour of gastroenterologist-led algorithm-based treatment on change in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire-Bowel (IBDQ-B) score at six months, mean difference (MD) 5.47, 95% CI 1.14 to 9.81) and nurse-led algorithm-based treatment versus usual care (significant difference in favour of the nurse-led algorithm-based treatment on change in IBDQ-B score at six months, MD 4.12, 95% CI 0.04 to 8.19) (1 study, 218 participants, low-quality evidence); hyperbaric oxygen therapy (at 2.0 atmospheres absolute) versus placebo (improvement of Subjective, Objective, Management, Analytic - Late Effects of Normal Tissue (SOMA-LENT) score in favour of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), P = 0.0019) (1 study, 150 participants, moderate-quality evidence, retinol palmitate versus placebo (improvement in RPSAS in favour of retinol palmitate, P = 0.01) (1 study, 19 participants, low-quality evidence) and integrated Chinese traditional plus Western medicine versus Western medicine (grade 0 to 1 radio-proctopathy after treatment in favour of integrated Chinese traditional medicine, RR 2.55, 95% CI 1.30 to 5.02) (1 study, 58 participants, low-quality evidence).The level of evidence for the majority of outcomes was downgraded using GRADE to low or very low, mainly due to imprecision and study limitations. 

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Although some interventions for late radiation proctopathy look promising (including rectal sucralfate, metronidazole added to an anti-inflammatory regimen, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy), single small studies provide limited evidence. Furthermore, outcomes important to people with cancer, including quality of life (QoL) and long-term effects, were not well recorded. The episodic and variable nature of late radiation proctopathy requires large multi-centre placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) to establish whether treatments are effective. Future studies should address the possibility of associated injury to other gastro-intestinal, urinary, or sexual organs, known as pelvic radiation disease. The interventions, as well as the outcome parameters, should be broader and include those important to people with cancer, such as QoL evaluations.

3D-printed bioceramic scaffolds with a Fe3O4/graphene oxide nanocomposite interface for hyperthermia therapy of bone tumor cells

Magnetic scaffolds display prominent magnetothermal ability, and can effectively kill tumor cells in an alternating magnetic field and improve bone formation ability in vitro.

Pelvic radiation therapy: Between delight and disaster

In the last few decades radiotherapy was established as one of the best and most widely used treatment modalities for certain tumours. Unfortunately that came with a price. As more people with cancer survive longer an ever increasing number of patients are living with the complications of radiotherapy and have become, in certain cases, difficult to manage. Pelvic radiation disease (PRD) can result from ionising radiation-induced damage to surrounding non-cancerous tissues resulting in disruption of normal physiological functions and symptoms such as diarrhoea, tenesmus, incontinence and rectal bleeding. The burden of PRD-related symptoms, which impact on a patient's quality of life, has been under appreciated and sub-optimally managed. This article serves to promote awareness of PRD and the vast potential there is to improve current service provision and research activities.

Prevention of pelvic radiation disease

Pelvic cancers are among the most frequently diagnosed cancers worldwide. Treatment of patients requires a multidisciplinary approach that frequently includes radiotherapy. Gastrointestinal (GI) radiation-induced toxicity is a major complication and the transient or long-term problems, ranging from mild to very severe, arising in non-cancerous tissues resulting from radiation treatment to a tumor of pelvic origin, are actually called as pelvic radiation disease. The incidence of pelvic radiation disease changes according to the radiation technique, the length of follow up, the assessment method, the type and stage of cancer and several other variables. Notably, even with the most recent radiation techniques, i.e., intensity-modulated radiotherapy, the incidence of radiation-induced GI side effects is overall reduced but still not negligible. In addition, radiation-induced GI side effects can develop even after several decades; therefore, the improvement of patient life expectancy will unavoidably increase the risk of developing radiation-induced complications. Once developed, the management of pelvic radiation disease may be challenging. Therefore, the prevention of radiation-induced toxicity represents a reasonable way to avoid a dramatic drop of the quality of life of these patients. In the current manuscript we provide an updated and practical review on the best available evidences in the field of the prevention of pelvic radiation disease.

Anorectal toxicity of external beam radiotherapy in the treatment of prostate cancer

Introduction:

Maximising radiotherapy dosage is associated with better tumour response in prostate cancer. High dose three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D CRT) has allowed dose escalation to be safely achieved and the current standard dose in the UK with this technique is 74 Grays (Gy). Documenting normal tissue tolerance is critical and forms the basis of this prospective study of anorectal toxicity.

Patients and methods:

Seventeen consecutive men (median age 72 (range 50–79) years) with localised or locally advanced prostate cancer treated with 74 Gy of 3D CRT were studied. Wexner incontinence scores, comprehensive anorectal physiology and endoanal ultrasound were measured before and four months after completing treatment.

Results:

Wexner incontinence scores increased from a median of 0 to 1 (range 0–6) with treatment ( p=0.001). Patients developed faecal urgency (7/17), passive faecal loss (5/17) or a combination of both (3/17) as new anorectal symptoms. No patients reported episodes of frank faecal incontinence. A significant decline in rectal mucosal electrosensitivity (mean (standard deviation (SD)) thresholds increasing from 24.7 (10.7) to 34.3 (9.3) mA after treatment, p=0.003) and an increase in rectal elastance (mean (SD) of 0.056 (0.03) mm Hg/ml to 0.078 (0.036) mm Hg/ml pre- and post-treatment respectively, p=0.0181) was seen. No changes in anal canal manometry, rectal distension volumes and endoanal ultrasound were noted.

Conclusions:

Early anorectal symptoms are common after 3D CRT for prostate cancer. Rectal injury is evident with an increase in wall stiffness and a decrease in mucosal sensitivity. Longer term studies monitoring anorectal toxicity are warranted.

Improving quality of life in female cancer survivors: current status and future questions

ABSTRACT: 

Almost 14 million people in the USA alone have been diagnosed with cancer. Given the improvements in diagnosis and treatment, over 60% of patients are expected to survive 5 years or more from the point of diagnosis. Treatments for cancer may result in long-term issues including those that impact the physical, emotional, spiritual or social domains. However, how best to care for issues in survivors remains unclear. Although much attention has been focused on survivorship care plans and survivorship clinics, there are limited data to show they improve outcomes. This article reviews the issues in female cancer survivors that can occur following diagnosis and treatment and suggest strategies that may assist in management. Finally, we review the current views regarding the care of cancer survivors and suggest important issues that must be addressed so that we can reach our goal of improvement in the quality of life of this emerging population.

Management of radiation-induced rectal bleeding

Pelvic radiation disease is one of the major complication after radiotherapy for pelvic cancers. The most commonly reported symptom is rectal bleeding which affects patients' quality of life. Therapeutic strategies for rectal bleeding are generally ignored and include medical, endoscopic, and hyperbaric oxygen treatments. Most cases of radiation-induced bleeding are mild and self-limiting, and treatment is normally not indicated. In cases of clinically significant bleeding (i.e. anaemia), medical therapies, including stool softeners, sucralfate enemas, and metronidazole, should be considered as first-line treatment options. In cases of failure, endoscopic therapy, mainly represented by argon plasma coagulation and hyperbaric oxygen treatments, are valid and complementary second-line treatment strategies. Although current treatment options are not always supported by high-quality studies, patients should be reassured that treatment options exist and success is achieved in most cases if the patient is referred to a dedicated centre.

Systematic review: anal and rectal changes after radiotherapy for prostate cancer

PURPOSE

Pelvic radiotherapy may lead to changes of anorectal function resulting in incontinence-related complaints. The aim of this study was to systematically review objective findings of late anorectal physiology and mucosal appearance after irradiation for prostate cancer.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library were searched. Original articles in which anal function, rectal function, or rectal mucosa were examined ≥3 months after EBRT for prostate cancer were included.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies were included with low to moderate quality. Anal resting pressures significantly decreased in 6 of the 9 studies including 277 patients. Changes of squeeze pressure and rectoanal inhibitory reflex were less uniform. Rectal distensibility was significantly impaired after EBRT in 7 of 9 studies (277 patients). In 4 of 9 studies on anal and in 5 of 9 on rectal function, disturbances were associated with urgency, frequent bowel movements or fecal incontinence. Mucosal changes as assessed by the Vienna Rectoscopy Score revealed telangiectasias in 73 %, congestion in 33 %, and ulceration in 4 % of patients in 8 studies including 346 patients, but no strictures or necrosis. Three studies reported mucosal improvement during follow-up. Telangiectasias, particularly multiple, were associated with rectal bleeding. Not all bowel complaints (30 %) were related to radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Low to moderate quality evidence indicates that EBRT reduces anal resting pressure, decreases rectal distensibility, and frequently induces telangiectasias of rectal mucosa. Objective changes may be associated with fecal incontinence, urgency, frequent bowel movements, and rectal bleeding, but these symptoms are not always related to radiation damage.

Persisting anorectal dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery

AIM

Sphincter-saving rectal cancer management affects anorectal function. This study evaluated persisting anorectal dysfunction and its impact on patients' well-being.

METHOD

Seventy-nine patients with a follow-up of 12-37 (median 22) months and 79 age- and sex-matched control subjects completed questionnaires.

RESULTS

The median number of diurnal bowel movements was three in patients and one in controls (P < 0.0001). Nocturnal defaecation occurred in 53% of patients. The median Vaizey score was 8 in patients and 4 in controls (P < 0.0001). Urgency without incontinence was reported by 47% of patients and 49% of controls (P = 0.873), soiling by 28% of patients and 3% of controls (P < 0.0001), incontinence for flatus by 73% of patients and 49% of controls (P = 0.0019), and incontinence for solid stools by 16% of patients and 4% of controls (P = 0.0153). Incontinence of liquid stools occurred in 17 of 20 patients and in one of five controls who had liquid stools (P = 0.0123). Incontinence for gas, liquid or solid stool occurred once or more weekly in 47%, 19% and 6% of patients respectively. Evacuation difficulties were reported by 98% of patients, but also by 77% of controls. Neoadjuvant radio(chemo)therapy adversely affected defaecation frequency and continence. Incontinence was associated with severe discomfort in 50% of patients, severe anxiety in 40% and severe embarrassment in 48%.

CONCLUSION

Anorectal dysfunction is a frequent problem after management of rectal cancer with an impact on the well-being of patients.

Radiation-induced bowel injury: the impact of radiotherapy on survivorship after treatment for gynaecological cancers

Background:

The number of women surviving cancer who live with symptoms of bowel toxicity affecting their quality of life continues to rise. In this retrospective study, we sought to describe and analyse the presenting clinical features in our cohort, and evaluate possible predictors of severity and chronicity in women with radiation-induced bowel injury after treatment for cervical and endometrial cancers.

Methods:

Review of records of 541 women treated within the North London Gynaecological Cancer Network between 2003 and 2010 with radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy for cervical and endometrial cancer identified 152 women who reported significant new bowel symptoms after pelvic radiation.

Results:

Factor analysis showed that the 14 most common and important presenting symptoms could be ‘clustered' into 3 groups with predictive significance for chronicity and severity of disease. Median follow-up for all patients was 60 months. Univariate analysis showed increasing age, smoking, extended field radiation, cervical cancer treatment and the need for surgical intervention to be significant predictors for severity of ongoing disease at last follow-up. On multivariate analysis, only age, cancer type (cervix) and symptom combinations/‘cluster' of (bloating, flatulence, urgency, rectal bleeding and per-rectal mucus) were found to be significant predictors of disease severity. Fifteen (19%) women in the cervical cancer group had radiation-induced bowel injury requiring surgical intervention compared with five (6.7%) in the endometrial cancer group.

Conclusion:

Women with cervical cancer are younger and appear to suffer more severe symptoms of late bowel toxicity, whereas women treated for endometrial cancer suffer milder more chronic disease. The impact of radiation-induced bowel injury and the effect on cancer survivorship warrants further research into investigation of predictors of severe late toxicity. There is a need for prospective trials to aid early diagnosis, while identifying the underlying patho-physiological process of the bowel injury.

Short-term effects of neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy on anorectal function in rectal cancer patients: a pilot study

Background

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy followed by curative surgery has gained acceptance as the therapy of choice in locally advanced rectal cancer. However, deterioration of anorectal function after long-course neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy combined with surgery for rectal cancer is poorly defined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological and clinical change of anorectal function after neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy for rectal cancer.

Methods

We analyzed 30 patients on whom preoperative anorectal manometry data were available both before and after chemoradiation from October 2010 to September 2011. All patients underwent long-course neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy. We compared manometric parameters between before and after neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy.

Results

Of 30 patients, 20 were males and 10 females. The mean age was 64.9 ± 9.9 years (range, 48-82). Before nCRT, the rectal compliance was higher in patients with ulceroinfiltrative type (P = 0.035) and greater involvement of luminal circumference (P = 0.017). However, there was the tendency of increased rectal sensory threshold for desire to defecate when the patient had decreased circumferential ratio of the tumor (P = 0.099), down-graded T stage (P = 0.016), or reduced tumor volume (P = 0.063) after neoadjuvant chemoradiation.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy did not significantly impair overall sphincter function before radical operation. The relationship between tumor response of chemoradiation and sensory threshold for desire to defecate may suggest that neoadjuvant chemoradiation may be helpful for defecatory function as well as local disease control, at least in the short-term period after the radiation in locally advanced rectal cancer patients.

Faecal incontinence after chemoradiotherapy in anal cancer survivors: long-term results of a national cohort

PURPOSE

To examine the prevalence and severity of faecal incontinence amongst anal cancer survivors after chemoradiotherapy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Anal cancer survivors from a complete, unselected, national cohort, minimum 2-years follow-up, were invited to a cross-sectional study. The St. Mark's incontinence score was used to evaluate occurrence and degree of faecal incontinence the last four weeks. The results were compared to age- and sex-matched volunteers from the general population.

RESULTS

Of 199 invited survivors and 1211 volunteers, 66% and 21%, respectively, signed informed consent. The survivors had significantly higher St. Mark's score than the volunteers (mean 9.7 vs. 1.1, p<0.001). Incontinence of stool of any degree was reported by 43% vs. 5% (OR 4.0, CI 2.73-6.01), and urgency was reported by 64% vs. 6% (OR 6.6, CI 4.38-9.90) of the survivors and volunteers, respectively. Only 29% of those with leakage of liquid stool used constipating drugs. Survivors of locally advanced tumours had a higher incontinence score (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate to severe faecal incontinence is common amongst anal cancer survivors. Post-treatment follow-up should include the evaluation of continence, and incontinent survivors should be offered better symptom management and multidisciplinary approach if simple measures are insufficient.

The utility of conditioning sequences in barostat protocols for the measurement of rectal compliance

AIM

A barostat can be used to measure rectal sensitivity, compliance and elastance all of which are potentially important physiological parameters in the pathophysiology of faecal incontinence. Current practice recommends a conditioning distension sequence be performed prior to index distensions. We questioned the validity of this by comparing values for rectal compliance during sequential conditioning (CD) and index (ID) distensions in physiologically normal subjects.

METHOD

Ten subjects (five men, mean age 55.2 years) with normal anal canal manometry, anorectal sensitivity and balloon distension thresholds were studied. After determining the minimum distension pressure, subjects underwent sequential isobaric distensions: CD 4 mmHg distensions every 45 s and ID 4 mmHg every 2 min, both to a maximum of 24 mmHg or patient tolerance. Compliance values from both sequences were calculated by measuring the maximum slope of pressure-volume curves. A paired t-test was performed to compare any differences between sequences.

RESULTS

Mean rectal compliance were 11.4 ml/mmHg (SD 5.8 ml/mmHg) and 10.9 ml/mmHg (SD 5.7 ml/mmHg) in the CD and ID, respectively, with no statistical difference noted between distensions (P = 0.78).

CONCLUSION

Rectal compliance can be measured with a single distension protocol without the need for an initial conditioning distension. Conditioning the rectum adds additional complexity to barostat protocols and is not necessary.

Management of intestinal complications in patients with pelvic radiation disease

Gastrointestinal toxicity after radiotherapy for pelvic cancer is a major complication-the most commonly reported symptoms include rectal bleeding, diarrhea, and fecal incontinence, which substantially impair patients' quality of life. Management of these symptoms can be a challenge, although available treatment strategies generally are ignored or underused. Radiation-induced symptoms have multiple mechanisms of pathogenesis; the first step for the correct management is to identify the mechanism that is causing the symptoms. Optimal management requires close liaisons among physicians, gastroenterologists with specialist interests, radiotherapists, oncologists, dieticians, nurses, and surgeons. Patients should be reassured that treatment options (medical, endoscopic, and surgical) exist and are in most cases successful if patients are referred to experts in pelvic radiation disease. However, although new therapeutic approaches are not yet always supported by high-quality trials, research projects are underway to improve management of patients. Clinicians should focus on using proven treatments correctly and avoiding misuse.

New approach to anal cancer: Individualized therapy based on sentinel lymph node biopsy

Oncological treatment is currently directed toward a tailored therapy concept. Squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal could be considered a suitable platform to test new therapeutic strategies to minimize treatment morbidity. Standard of care for patients with anal canal cancer consists of a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This treatment has led to a high rate of local control and a 60% cure rate with preservation of the anal sphincter, thus replacing surgical abdominoperineal resection. Lymph node metastases represent a critical independent prognostic factor for local recurrence and survival. Mesorectal and iliac lymph nodes are usually included in the radiation field, whereas the inclusion of inguinal regions still remains controversial because of the subsequent adverse side effects. Sentinel lymph node biopsies could clearly identify inguinal node-positive patients eligible for therapeutic groin irradiation. A sentinel lymph node navigation procedure is reported here to be a feasible and effective method for establishing the true inguinal node status in patients suffering from anal canal cancer. Based on the results of sentinel node biopsies, a selective approach could be proposed where node-positive patients could be selected for inguinal node irradiation while node-negative patients could take advantage of inguinal sparing irradiation, thus avoiding toxic side effects.

Anterior resection syndrome

Up to 80% of patients with rectal cancer undergo sphincter-preserving surgery. It is widely accepted that up to 90% of such patients will subsequently have a change in bowel habit, ranging from increased bowel frequency to faecal incontinence or evacuatory dysfunction. This wide spectrum of symptoms after resection and reconstruction of the rectum has been termed anterior resection syndrome. Currently, no precise definition or causal mechanisms have been established. This disordered bowel function has a substantial negative effect on quality of life. Previous reviews have mainly focused on different colonic reconstructive configurations and their comparative effects on daily function and quality of life. The present Review explores the potential mechanisms underlying disturbed functions, as well as current, novel, and future treatment options.

Prospective analysis of patient-reported late toxicity following pelvic radiotherapy for gynaecological cancer

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

As late radiotherapy toxicity impacts negatively on the quality-of-life of cancer survivors and is often under reported, a study was set up to prospectively collect patient-reported data in an unselected series of patients with gynaecological malignancy. Aim 1 - To provide 3 year results for the longitudinal study. Aim 2 - To improve the questionnaire used to collect data by identifying redundant items and modifying for use to collect Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) data.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Aim 1 - Patient reported outcome data were collected prospectively by 226 patients before and up to 3 years following radiotherapy for gynaecological cancer using a questionnaire developed to collect LENT subjective data. Aim 2 - A factor analysis was performed to identify which questions gave the most and least information.

RESULTS

Aim 1 - Faecal urgency and incontinence (all grades) peaked at 79% and 24%, respectively at 1 year then settled to 69% and 18% at 3 years, respectively. Urinary urgency (all grades) increased with time and was described in 75% at 3 years. Other symptoms reported at 3 years include diarrhoea in 12%, urinary incontinence in 27% and vaginal dryness in 29%. A third of patients did not feel their sex life had changed following treatment, while a quarter felt that it had. Aim 2 - some questions overlapped and others were non-specific. The questionnaire has subsequently been altered.

CONCLUSIONS

The extent of late toxicity is substantial. This detailed information is important for both patients and clinicians in terms of treatment decisions and follow-up care. The LENT questionnaire provides a feasible tool for capture of this information in the clinic.

Late symptoms in long-term gynaecological cancer survivors after radiation therapy: a population-based cohort study

Background:

We surveyed the occurrence of physical symptoms among long-term gynaecological cancer survivors after pelvic radiation therapy, and compared with population-based control women.

Methods:

We identified a cohort of 789 eligible gynaecological cancer survivors treated with pelvic radiation therapy alone or combined with surgery in Stockholm or Gothenburg, Sweden. A control group of 478 women was randomly sampled from the Swedish Population Registry. Data were collected through a study-specific validated postal questionnaire with 351 questions concerning gastrointestinal and urinary tract function, lymph oedema, pelvic bones and sexuality. Clinical characteristics and treatment details were retrieved from medical records.

Results:

Participation rate was 78% for gynaecological cancer survivors and 72% for control women. Median follow-up time after treatment was 74 months. Cancer survivors reported a higher occurrence of symptoms from all organs studied. The highest age-adjusted relative risk (RR) was found for emptying of all stools into clothing without forewarning (RR 12.7), defaecation urgency (RR 5.7), difficulty feeling the need to empty the bladder (RR 2.8), protracted genital pain (RR 5.0), pubic pain when walking indoors (RR 4.9) and erysipelas on abdomen or legs at least once during the past 6 months (RR 3.6). Survivors treated with radiation therapy alone showed in general higher rates of symptoms.

Conclusion:

Gynaecological cancer survivors previously treated with pelvic radiation report a higher occurrence of symptoms from the urinary and gastrointestinal tract as well as lymph oedema, sexual dysfunction and pelvic pain compared with non-irradiated control women. Health-care providers need to actively ask patients about specific symptoms in order to provide proper diagnostic investigations and management.

Radiotherapy for node positive penile cancer: experience of the Leeds teaching hospitals

PURPOSE

We studied the outcomes in patients with node positive penile cancer who received radiotherapy to inguinal and pelvic nodes. Although half of node positive cases are cured by lymphadenectomy, little data are available on the potential further benefits and toxicities of postoperative radiotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively audited the clinical notes and electronic records of 23 patients referred to a specialist center from 2002 to 2008 who received radiotherapy to the inguinal/pelvic nodes as adjuvant treatment after lymphadenectomy (14), or as high grade palliation for extensive/fixed nodes (8) or extensive local tumor (1). The primary outcome measure was overall survival. Secondary end points were locoregional recurrence-free survival and toxicity.

RESULTS

All 13 deaths were due to penile cancer. Patients with adjuvant therapy had better overall survival (66% vs 11%, p<0.001) and locoregional relapse-free survival (56% vs 22%, p=0.03) than those with high grade palliation. Six of 14 adjuvant cases and 7 of 9 with high grade palliation relapsed locoregionally. Of patients with adjuvant therapy and extracapsular spread 1 of 6 with N1, 1 of 4 with N2 and 3 of 4 with N3 disease relapsed (p=0.31). No life threatening toxicity was observed. It was difficult to determine the relative contributions of radiotherapy and surgery to leg/scrotal lymphedema. The study was limited by its small size, which reflects the rarity of this tumor.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant radiotherapy appears to have a role after inguinal lymphadenectomy, particularly in patients with extracapsular nodal spread, in whom historically survival rates have been poor. Our findings warrant further investigation in larger series of patients.

Late-onset bowel dysfunction after pelvic radiotherapy: a national survey of current practice and opinions of clinical oncologists

AIMS

Seventeen thousand patients receive treatment with radical pelvic radiotherapy annually in the UK. It is common for patients to develop gastrointestinal symptoms after treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the current practice of clinical oncologists in the UK with respect to late-onset bowel dysfunction after pelvic radiotherapy, and to discuss the wider issues surrounding current and future service provision for this patient group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A questionnaire was developed to establish current practice. This was sent to the 314 clinical oncologists in the UK who treat pelvic malignancies up to a maximum of three times.

RESULTS

One hundred and ninety (61%) responses were received. Most oncologists (76%) screen for gastrointestinal dysfunction after pelvic radiotherapy, usually through history taking rather than formal tools. Clinical oncologists view toxicity as a significant problem, with most estimating that up to 24% of patients at 1 year have bowel symptoms. Most oncologists refer less than 50% of their symptomatic patients, with most referring less than 10%. These referrals are 31% to a gastroenterologist, 23% to a gastrointestinal surgeon and 33% to both. Most (58%) do not have access to a gastroenterologist or a gastrointestinal surgeon with a specialist interest in their area. Sixty-five per cent of oncologists think a service is required specifically for patients with bowel dysfunction after pelvic radiotherapy, but half (52%) think that the current service in their area is inadequate.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical oncologists recognise late-onset bowel dysfunction after pelvic radiotherapy as a significant problem, but one that is linked to poor recognition of symptoms and an inadequate patchy service.

Loose stools lead to fecal incontinence among gynecological cancer survivors

BACKGROUND

Many patients treated with radiotherapy to the pelvic region report a change in bowel habits. Loose stools, urgency and fecal incontinence may have a significant impact on daily life and social functioning.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We attempted to follow up 789 women, treated with pelvic radiotherapy for a gynecological cancer during 1991 to 2003 at two departments of gynecological oncology in Sweden. A control group of 478 women from the Swedish Population Registry was also included. As a preparatory study, we made in-depth interviews with 26 women previously treated for gynecological cancer. Based on their narratives, we constructed a study-specific questionnaire including 351 questions and validated it face-to-face. The questionnaire covered questions of physical symptoms originating in the pelvis, demographics, psychological and quality of life factors. In relation to bowel symptoms, 60 questions were asked.

RESULTS

Six-hundred and sixteen (78%) gynecological cancer survivors and 344 (72%) control women participated. Two-hundred and twenty-six (37%) cancer survivors reported loose stools at least once a week. Eighty-three percent of the survivors with loose stools every day reported defecation urgency with fecal leakage, compared to 20% of cancer survivors without loose stools. Cancer survivors with loose stools at least once a week were 7.7 times more likely to suffer from defecation urgency with fecal leakage (95% CI 4.4-13.3) compared to those who had loose stools once a month or less. In order to avoid loose stools affected survivors with loose stools often skipped meals (13%), made an active choice of food (47%) and preferentially used prescribed medication (36%).

DISCUSSION

There is a relation between loose stools and defecation urgency with fecal leakage among long-term gynecological cancer survivors treated with pelvic radiotherapy. Targeting loose stools can possibly help survivors to decrease frequency of fecal leakage.