Radiation dermatitis is a typical side effect of radiation therapy. Concentrated exposure to radiation during treatment can result to painful marks on the skin.
Some individuals who undergo radiation therapy end up with moderate to severe skin reactions. These typically arise within the initial 2 weeks of treatment and can last for several years after therapy is completed.
What happens during radiation therapy?
During treatment, concentrated X-ray beams passes through the skin and generate irradiated free radicals that causes:
- DNA damage
- Tissue damage
- Inflammation of the skin
Some individuals who undergo radiation therapy end up with moderate to severe skin reactions.
As the treatment continues, the skin does not have time between doses to recuperate. Over time, the affected site breaks down which causes pain, rashes and discomfort.
What are the signs?
The generalized signs of radiation dermatitis include:
- Itchiness
- Redness
- Flaking or peeling
- Soreness
- Moistness
- Blisters
- Changes with the pigmentation
- Ulcer formation
- Fibrosis or scarring of the connective tissues
Management of radiation dermatitis
With the correct approach, this side effect can be lessened or completely avoided. The treatment involves a combination of topical and oral measures such as:
- Corticosteroid cream – a topical steroid cream is often used in treating radiation dermatitis
- Antibiotics – both oral and topical antibiotics are used in treating skin damage caused by radiotherapy
- Silver leaf nylon dressing – this is considered as the best option in treating radiation dermatitis. It has anti-infective and antimicrobial properties. The silver ions present in the dressing are released into the skin and lessens the discomfort and improve healing.
- Zinc – it has several benefits that help improve the skin
- Amifostine – this is a drug that eliminates free radicals and lessens the toxicity from radiation.
What is the outlook?
If radiation dermatitis develops after radiation therapy, proper treatment can manage the condition.