Managing Radiotherapy Skin Damage

Radiotherapy skin damage is a common side effect of radiation treatment for cancer. While most skin damage is mild and causes minimal discomfort cancer patients undergoing radiation treatments may have suppressed immune systems. Any rash sore or open wound should be watched closely for signs of infection during treatment and blood tests may be ordered to monitor immune function.

Some patients are more likely than others to experience skin damage. Those who take chemotherapy in conjunction with radiation are particularly at risk. Patients with breast cancer skin cancer in sensitive areas or cancers of the head and neck are also more prone to severe reactions. A history of tobacco use diabetes and some circulatory diseases may also affect the rate at which skin heals itself.

Common skin responses to radiotherapy include a sunburn-like rash hair loss in the treated area paleness and peeling. Itching flaking dryness and a bruised feeling are also common. These reactions are typical and are usually not a cause for alarm. After treatment these conditions typically heal on their own without treatment although an antibiotic ointment may be prescribed to prevent infection. If no improvement is seen after three weeks of ending radiation treatment the affected area should be examined by a dermatologist or other medical professional.

Less common skin reactions include severe burning ulceration and skin cancer in the treated area. Burns are usually treated by reducing the dose of radiation and applying a cream such as silver sulfadine or cetomacrogol. Skin reactions can develop months after treatment so regular skin checks are recommended.

Severe radiotherapy skin damage is very rare. Non-healing ulcers may show up weeks or months after treatment and they may be mistaken for skin cancer. Any sore that does not heal changes shape or rapidly increases in size should be tested for cancer. Surgical removal of ulcerated skin is often recommended. Although very rare skin cancer may develop in areas treated with radiotherapy so daily skin checks are important.

Patients can reduce the risk of skin reactions through simple lifestyle changes. Stopping smoking avoiding perfumes and dyes and eliminating common household irritants can eliminate many topical side effects of radiation treatments. Areas that are exposed to sunlight should be kept covered and the use of a zinc oxide based sunblock is encouraged. Environmental exposure to possible irritants should be avoided; for example stain-resistant sprays on new sofas rough fabrics and most cosmetics should be avoided. Until the skin has healed do not use scented laundry detergents or fabric softener.

Proper skin care may also help reduce discomfort. Keep the skin clean using unscented soap and lukewarm water and pat the skin dry with a soft towel. Moisturizers that do not contain perfumes dyes or untested herbal extracts may be used although some dermatologists do prescribe tea extracts and honey to treat damaged skin. Stop using any product that causes irritation dryness or itching immediately including products recommended by a doctor. Dermatologists who deal with skin cancer patients regularly often have lists of safe products to use for radiotherapy skin damage including over-the-counter creams and cosmetics.