Cancer Treatment-Related Radiodermatitis

Patient Guideline Summary

Publication Date: October 31, 2020

Last Updated: March 2, 2023

Objective

This patient summary means to discuss key recommendations from the Oncology Nursing Forum for cancer treatment-related radiodermatitis.

Overview

Radiodermatitis is an inflammation of the skin due to radiation (x-ray) treatment for cancer.

Symptoms include pain and skin damage.

The severity of the damage varies with the dose of radiation.

This patient summary focuses on management of radiodermatitis.

Treatment

Deodorant/antiperspirant
Topical steroids (cortisone applied to the skin) (prescription strength preferred)
Standard washing/skincare before and after treatment
Only in a clinical trial: aloe vera and oral curcumin
Not recommended: emu oil, calendula, nonsteroidal interventions

Source Citation

Gosselin, T., Ginex, P., Backler, C., Bruce, S., Hutton, A., Marquez, C., McGee, L., Shaftic, A. M., Suarez, L., Moriarty, K., Maloney, C., Vrabel, M., & Morgan, R. (2020). ONS Guidelines^TM for Cancer Treatment–Related Radiodermatitis. Oncology Nursing Forum, 47(6), 654–670. https://doi.org/10.1188/20.onf.654-670

Disclaimer

The information in this patient summary should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.