Radiation therapy to the pelvis can lead to chronic irritation and inflammation in the rectum. Most commonly, this follows radiation therapy for prostate cancer or gynecological malignancies. Although the symptoms are often mild, they can be more severe requiring treatment. Colon and Rectal Associates offers patients a number of treatment modalities.

This is a subset of ulcerative colitis, in which the inflammatory changes are limited to the rectum. In general, ulcerative proctitis results in fewer symptoms and is more responsive to therapy than more extensive colitis. Because the disease is limited to the lower large intestine, medications administered via the rectum, such as enemas or suppositories, are often effective. Although ulcerative proctitis may respond well to therapy, it can become a chronic condition.