Histopathological study of the esophageal injury induced by high-dose-rate intracavitary irradiation

The histopathological responses of the rabbit esophagus to high-dose-rate intracavitary irradiation were investigated. After 5, 10 or 15 Gy irradiation using a remote afterloading system, the rabbits were sacrificed on different occasions. The esophagus was excised from each animal and examined histopathologically. Esophageal ulcer was observed 7 to 28 days after the irradiation of the highest dose. Edema and cell infiltration in the lamina propria proceeded mucosal changes like ulcer. Chronic injuries such as mucosal necrosis were seen at 6 months.