A 49-year-old computer technician receives irradiation to the pelvis for cervical cancer. Three months after irradiation, severe rectal proctitis may be shown by the presence of which of the following?
**Core Concept**
Radiation-induced proctitis is a common complication of pelvic irradiation, characterized by inflammation and damage to the rectal mucosa. This condition can lead to symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, and changes in bowel habits.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The presence of neutrophils in the rectal mucosa is a hallmark of acute radiation proctitis. This is due to the radiation-induced damage to the rectal mucosa, leading to an increase in permeability and the infiltration of neutrophils into the affected area. The influx of neutrophils causes inflammation, which can lead to symptoms such as rectal bleeding and pain. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the body's inflammatory response.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Eosinophils are typically associated with allergic reactions and parasitic infections, and are not a primary feature of radiation-induced proctitis.
**Option B:** Basophils are involved in the inflammatory response, but are not typically associated with radiation-induced proctitis.
**Option C:** Plasma cells are involved in the production of antibodies and are not typically associated with the acute inflammatory response seen in radiation-induced proctitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Radiation-induced proctitis can be a challenging condition to manage, and may require a combination of medical and surgical interventions. Patients who have received pelvic irradiation should be monitored closely for symptoms of proctitis, and should be aware of the importance of maintaining good bowel habits and avoiding spicy or irritating foods.
**Correct Answer: D. Neutrophils.**