RADIATION DERMATITIS

Radiation dermatitis is a side effect of radiation therapy (external radiation ionizing radiation). It is also called radiodermatitis, X-ray dermatitis, radiation damage to the skin, or radiation burn.

Most often, this disease occurs as a result of radiation therapy for malignant neoplasms. In rare cases, it can also be the result of radiation exposure during interventional procedures such as coronary angiography, embolization procedures, and permanent catheter insertion.

The mechanism of radiation dermatitis: radiation leads to damage to skin cells and blood vessels under it, which causes inflammation.

Types of radiation dermatitis

Radiation dermatitis usually manifests itself within a few days or weeks after the start of radiation therapy. It depends on the intensity of the radiation dose and the sensitivity of human tissues.

Acute radiation dermatitis

Acute radiation dermatitis develops within 90 days after irradiation and appears on skin areas that have been exposed to radiation.

Signs:

• redness of the skin (erythema)
• peeling of the skin (desquamation)
• itching
• bullous rashes (fluid-filled blisters)
• skin necrosis (death of skin cells)
• ulceration (ulceration)

Chronic radiation dermatitis

Chronic radiation dermatitis can develop from 15 days to 10 years or more after the start of radiation therapy. Chronic radiation dermatitis is a continuation of the acute process and entails further inflammatory changes in the skin.

Signs:

• disappearance of pores on the skin (follicular structures)
• loss of skin elasticity pigmentation
• disorder
• fragile skin surface
• protruding blood vessels (telangiectasia)

Stages of radiation dermatitis

Stage 1:

• redness
• peeling
• puffiness

Stage 2:

• bullous rashes (large blisters filled with fluid)
• severe edema
• pain

Stage 3:

• ulcers
• severe swelling
• pain

Treatment of radiation dermatitis

If signs of radiation cystitis are found, you should consult a doctor.

After the survey and examination, you can be assigned:

• corticosteroids
• anti-inflammatory drugs for topical use
• epithelizing agents

For example, Vita-Hyal regenerating cream with unique comenic acid, panthenol and hyaluronic acid. Natural ingredients soothe the skin, deeply moisturize and promote rapid regeneration of damage.