Radiotherapy-Induced Dermatitis
What is radiotherapy for cancer treatment?
Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses radioactive or ionizing radiation to target and destroy malignant cancer cells.
This therapy is commonly used for various types of cancer, including breast cancer and cancers of the head and neck. While radiotherapy is highly effective in controlling and eradicating cancer, it can also have side effects on the skin.
Radiotherapy-induced skin reactions are common and can be uncomfortable. The skin in the treated area may become thinner, lose its protective barrier, and undergo noticeable changes.
Typical side effects of radiotherapy on the skin include discoloration, swelling, peeling, itching, and heightened sensitivity. In some cases, radiotherapy skin damage may develop, leading to pain and discomfort. The severity of post-radiotherapy skin changes can differ, but with appropriate skin care and treatment, these effects can be controlled and reduced.
Adhering to radiotherapy skin care guidelines is vital for preserving skin health, reducing radiotherapy skin damage, and avoiding additional complications. Proper skin care during radiotherapy is especially crucial for patients receiving treatment in sensitive areas, such as the breast, head, neck or pelvic area.
Radiotherapy can cause radiation-induced skin reactions (RISR), which vary across skin tones. While redness is often a sign in light skin, patients with dark skin may experience hyperpigmentation or other changes.
Understanding these differences is essential for accurate diagnosis and care. This article highlights how to spot RISR in different skin tones and the importance of using inclusive assessment tools. Learn more about identifying and managing radiotherapy skin reactions across all skin tones
Effectively managing radiotherapy skin reactions starts with early, proactive skin care, ideally from day one of treatment.
Flamigel® RT, a skincare product designed for radiotherapy patients, helps alleviate symptoms like erythema, itching, dryness, flaking, and irritation, commonly caused by radiotherapy skin damage. By delaying and reducing the incidence of radiotherapy-induced moist desquamation (RIMD), Flamigel® RT cools and soothes the skin, relieving discomfort and minimizing itching and irritation.
Flamigel® RT not only addresses skin changes during and post-radiotherapy treatment, but also helps patients maintain healthy skin throughout their radiotherapy sessions. Using Flamigel® RT from the beginning helps to prepare the skin, keeping it hydrated and protected while supporting regeneration between treatments. This proactive approach minimizes side effects, maintains skin integrity, and ensures greater comfort, allowing patients to continue their prescribed radiotherapy with less disruption.
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