Small bowel bacterial overgrowth and lactose intolerance during radical pelvic radiotherapy: An observational study.

摘要: Abstract Introduction Loose stool affects up to 80% of all patients during pelvic radiotherapy and faecal incontinence may occur. Several causes for diarrhoea have been defined, though few oncologists target these in affected most treat symptomatically only. It is not known whether small bowel bacterial overgrowth, a frequent cause gastrointestinal symptoms other contexts, occurs radiotherapy. The frequency new-onset lactose intolerance also clear. Aims methods To perform an observational pilot study estimate the incidence overgrowth radical Before treatment started at weeks 4–5 radiotherapy, glucose hydrogen breath test tolerance were performed. Gastrointestinal assessed using Vaizey questionnaire Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scoring system. Results Twenty two men 17 women (median age 61, range 42–81) recruited, four treated gastrointestinal, gynaecological 18 urological cancers. Thirty-eight underwent tests 26 both time points. Ten (26%) positive test: 60% developed new or worsening had frequency. Four (15%) intolerance. Of 1 treatment, 2 (50%) increase change quality habit. Conclusion Small occur are likely contribute some patients.