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File:IPLab12RadiationChanges8.jpg|This high-power photomicrograph of the wall of the ileum shows more examples of pleomorphic cells caused by radiation injury (arrows).
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== Study Questions ==
* <spoiler text="Why was there an obstruction at this site?">Radiation damage caused fibrosis of the bowel wall and atrophy of the mucosa. This probably led to an area of poor peristalsis and a physiologic obstruction. The fibrosis in the wall can also lead to a physical obstruction (stricture).
Due to the atrophy of the mucosa, the fibrosis, and the poor blood flow to this area (chronic vascular occlusive lesions), this area of bowel would be more susceptible to rupture, as happened in this case.</spoiler>
* <spoiler text="Why are the small intestine and colon so susceptible to radiation injury?">The gastrointestinal tract is very radiosensitive and is frequently affected in all forms of deep radiation. The intestinal epithelium (crypt cells) are particularly radiosensitive due to their high turnover rate. These cell often show nuclear and cellular pleomorphism, mitotic abnormalities, and cell necrosis. Later, ulcerations may appear, along with vascular and connective tissue changes. The late effects of intestinal injury comprise mucosal and submucosal atrophy and fibrosis, occasionally producing intestinal strictures.</spoiler>
* <spoiler text="Are patients who have been treated with radiation more susceptible to formation of new cancers?">Yes, due to the above-mentioned alterations in nuclear and mitotic activity.</spoiler>
{{IPLab 12}}
[[Category: IPLab:Lab 12]]