Gastrointestinal side effects of cancer treatments

Ther Adv Chronic Dis. 2020 Nov 27:11:2040622320970354. doi: 10.1177/2040622320970354. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Cancer survival rates have significantly improved over the last number of years due to advancements in cancer therapies. Unfortunately this has come at a cost. Therapeutic side effects are feared complications of therapy that may result in decreased quality of life and early cessation of the therapy, which can have knock-on effects on outcomes. This article outlines the main gastrointestinal side effects seen with radiation therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and discusses appropriate investigation and management.

Keywords: Cancer; Chemotherapy; Colitis; Enteritis; Gastrointestinal side effects; Hepatitis; Immunotherapy; Proctitis; Radiotherapy; Typhilitis.

Publication types

  • Review