Background: Radiotherapy for carcinoma of the cervix and endometrium inevitably leads to the development of acute reaction in about 10% of patients. The incidence of urinary complications especially from the bladder might be influenced by urinary tract infections.
The aim of the study was to assess the incidence of urinary tract infections in the analyzed population and their potential influence on the subsequent development of acute post irradiation complications from the bladder. Material and methods: Two hundred and twenty patients irradiated at Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology between 2000 and 2002 were the subject of the analysis. Voided urine was obtained for urinalysis and culture at the beginning, the end and 3 months after radiotherapy. Results: A total of 62 patients (72%) with positive bacteriuria developed bladder reaction. From 134 patients with no bladder reaction in only 24 (18%) cases urine culture was positive. There was a strong correlation of urinary tract infection and subsequent development of early bladder reaction (p<0.034, Chi²=12.78). Conclusion: Urinary tract infections can be recognized as an important factor contributing to the increased risk of early post irradiation bladder complications. Routine urinalysis and culture before radiotherapy allows earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment of urinary tract infections, thus preventing bladder reactions.