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Radiotherapy is one of the leading forms of treatment for those who are suffering from cancer. Radiotherapy skin damage is a common side effect of this treatment, which is characterized by pinkish discolorations and even open sores on the skin. Damage occurs in stages, although it can be more severe and will heal slower in patients who are already very ill with compromised immune systems.

Signs of Radiotherapy Skin Damage
Signs of skin irritations manifest according to three levels of severity. In patients who manifest first-degree reactions, the affected areas are often red and dry. Sufferers may complain of an itchy sensation on the affected area. The discoloration only often affects the areas treated, so the discolorations may appear as patches of red. Bright red discolorations, a burning sensation, and blisters characterize second-degree reactions, and these are more painful than first-degree reactions. The third degree reaction is the most severe. Sufferers often manifest open and moist skin lesions, which are painful and weepy. Patients who are expected to undergo long periods of radiotherapy treatment often have the highest risk of developing third degree reactions. Areas where these reactions can be commonly found include all areas which skin folds are present, such as the skin fold under the breast and around the nipples, the neck, armpits, right below the glutes, and the groin.

Patients at Risk for Radiotherapy Skin Damage
Patients whose skin integrity is compromised due to age or illness are especially prone to radiotherapy damage. The skin of elderly patients is no longer capable of rapid regeneration of new skin cells so discolorations and burns may take longer to heal. Patients suffering from immune system conditions may also be more prone to developing infections because of skin damage.

Treatment for Radiotherapy Skin Damage
Damage and wounds resulting from radiotherapy can be treated using topical creams. Acute reactions such as discolorations can be treated using anti-itching products that reduce the itchy sensation to prevent the sufferer from scratching on the affected area. Anti-itching medications prevent the patient from scratching and breaking the skin, since this can easily lead to infections. For cancer patients with compromised immune systems, the slightest infection can be fatal.

For open sores that develop into infections, patients are often given antibiotics to stop the proliferation of bacteria. Antibiotics are extremely important in making sure that existing infections are treated before the patient’s immune system shuts down. Patients may also be advised to use moisturizing creams designed to prevent rashes and irritation caused by radiotherapy. This will lessen the risk for the development of first or second-degree reactions later on.

Radiotherapy skin damage is painful and often the precursor to more serious infections when not treated right away. It is therefore important to look for early signs of skin irritation and damage after every radiotherapy treatment. Very sick patients need to boost their immunity using diet and medications in order to lessen their chances of developing the side effects of the therapy, which could easily lead to fatal infections.