Role of Steroids in Malignant Bowel Obstruction

Abstract

Various cancers such as ovarian, stomach, colon or pancreas may present with mechanical bowel obstruction. This may be partial or total depending on the pathology and extent of the disease. On presentation, the patient requires appropriate assessment and management as per underlying pathology and assessment findings. Comprehensive medical and surgical management strategies are required to manage malignant bowel obstruction effectively. Steroids have been reported for their beneficial use in malignant bowel obstruction. We review the usefulness of steroids in patients presenting with malignant bowel obstruction.