Radiodermatitis

Radiodermatitis is acute (erythema/dry/moist desquamation during radiation) or chronic (atrophy/fibrosis/telangiectasia/ulcer/cancer after radiotherapy) skin change in radiation field. Treatment: acute: gentle skin care; emollients; topical corticosteroids; avoid irritation; chronic: wound care for ulcers; surgical excision/skin grafting for nonhealing ulcers/radiation necrosis; treat fibrosis; surveillance biopsy for radiation-induced squamous/basal cell carcinoma; sun protection; follow-up dermatology/oncology.

Common Symptoms

Acute: erythema/desquamation; chronic: atrophy/telangiectasia/fibrosis/ulcer; radiation field

Causes and Pathogenesis

Ionizing radiation damages keratinocytes/vessels causing acute and chronic changes.

Treatment

Acute: emollients/topical steroids; chronic: wound care/surgery; cancer surveillance

Preventive Measures

Radiation planning; skin care during RT; long-term surveillance.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology/Radiation-oncology/Surgery department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.