Modified Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) Rectal Toxicity Scale for Late Complications

Description

Late rectal complications following radiation therapy can be graded using a modified version of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) rectal toxicity scale.

Parameters:

(1) bleeding

(2) mucous discharge

(3) rectal discomfort

(4) loose stools or diarrhea

(5) rectal mucosa as seen on proctoscopy

(6) need for surgery

Grade	Severity
1	mild, self-limiting
2	moderate, lifestyle unchanged
3	severe, lifestyle affecting
4	life-threatening, disabling

Parameter	Finding	Grade
bleeding	none	0
	minimal, infrequent	1
	intermittent, not requiring pads	2
	requires regular use of pads	3
	requiring hospitalization or blood transfusion	4
mucous discharge	none	0
	minimal, clear mucous	1
	intermittent, not requiring pads	2
	requires regular use of pads	3
rectal discomfort	none	0
	not requiring analgesics	1
	rectal pain requiring NSAIDs	2
	rectal pain requiring narcotics	3
loose stools or diarrhea	none	0
	not requiring medication	1
	requiring medication to control	2
rectal mucosa on proctoscopy	normal	0
	erythema	2
	ulceration	3
	fistula	4
	obstruction	4
need for surgery	none	0
	minor surgical intervention	3
	requires major surgery	4

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Modified Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) Rectal Toxicity Scale for Late Complications

Description

Specialty