Effects of anticancer agents of the intestinal epithelium. A morphologic study.

In order to make clear the pathophysiology of digestive symptoms which are caused with anticancer agents, three anticancer agents, i.e., mitomycin C, 5-FU and cytosine arabinoside were administered pre-operatively, and the ultrastructure of the intestinal epithelium, especially that of absorptive cells, were studied on the specimens collected intra-operatively. In view of the finding that severe degeneration occurred inside cytoplasms, chiefly their nuclei, it was surmised that the biosynthesis and supply of proteins such as digestive enzymes were not amply carried on; hence, the chemotherapy could give rise to severe digestion and absorption disorders. It appeared necessary to further study the dosage and dosage schedule of the anticancer agents, along with the necessity for taking ample care of patients presenting such disorders.