Effect of Radiotherapy Dose Rates on Early Intestinal Toxicity

Abstract

OBJECTIVEThe aim of the present study was to investigate early histopathological changes in small intestinal tissue caused by radiotherapy (RT) applications with varying dose rates in rats. METHODSThirty rats were divided into 3 groups. The first and second groups were irradiated at 300 MU/min and 600 MU/min, respectively. The third was a control group. On day 7 following RT application, small intestine tissue samples were obtained. RESULTSMucosal thickness was significantly lower in the 300 MU/min group, compared to the other groups, and thickness was significantly lower in the 600 MU/min group, compared to the control group. Villus length was significantly decreased in the 300 MU/min group, compared to the other groups, and villus width was significantly increased in the control group, compared to the other groups. CONCLUSIONRT application with high dose may be less toxic for tissue with high risk for acute toxicity, such as that of the small intestine.