My gastroenterologist who performed the sigmoidoscopy and biopsies just replied this evening:
Hi. Sorry for the delay but I was away last week and just returned. The biopsies did not show any infection and are suggestive of radiation proctitis. You can continue to use Lomotil to reduce the frequency of diarrhea. In addition, you can dissolve 2 tablets of Carafate in 20ml of warm water and administer that as an enema twice daily (you can get enema bottles at the pharmacy or buy fleet’s enema bottle and discard the contents and use the empty bottle). It may take up to 4 weeks to see a reduction in bleeding. Unfortunately, radiation proctitis can last for several months to a year and can also become chronic radiation proctitis in up to 30% of patients.
I have ordered the Carafate tablets for you which you can pick up at the Ashburn pharmacy. I have forwarded the results to Dr. Wollins as well. I will let Dr. Dogra know as well.
Sincerely,
Amy W. Lin, M.D.
Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group – Falls Church
201 North Washington Street
Falls Church, VA 22046