Does aqueous or sucralfate cream affect the severity of erythematous radiation skin reactions? A randomised controlled trial

A systematic review of 454 randomized controlled trials using the Dermatology Life Quality Index: experience in 69 diseases and 43 countries

BACKGROUND

Over 29 years of clinical application, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) has remained the most used patient-reported outcome (PRO) in dermatology due to its robustness, simplicity and ease of use.

OBJECTIVES

To generate further evidence of the DLQI's utility in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and to cover all diseases and interventions.

METHODS

The methodology followed PRISMA guidelines and included seven bibliographical databases, searching articles published from 1 January 1994 until 16 November 2021. Articles were reviewed independently by two assessors, and an adjudicator resolved any opinion differences.

RESULTS

Of 3220 screened publications, 454 articles meeting the eligibility criteria for inclusion, describing research on 198 190 patients, were analysed. DLQI scores were primary endpoints in 24 (5.3%) of studies. Most studies were of psoriasis (54.1%), although 69 different diseases were studied. Most study drugs were systemic (85.1%), with biologics comprising 55.9% of all pharmacological interventions. Topical treatments comprised 17.0% of total pharmacological interventions. Nonpharmacological interventions, mainly laser therapy and ultraviolet radiation treatment, comprised 12.2% of the total number of interventions. The majority of studies (63.7%) were multicentric, with trials conducted in at least 42 different countries; 40.2% were conducted in multiple countries. The minimal clinically importance difference (MCID) was reported in the analysis of 15.0% of studies, but only 1.3% considered full score meaning banding of the DLQI. Forty-seven (10.4%) of the studies investigated statistical correlation of the DLQI with clinical severity assessment or other PRO/quality of life tools; and 61-86% of studies had within-group scores differences greater than the MCID in 'active treatment arms'. The Jadad risk-of-bias scale showed that bias was generally low, as 91.8% of the studies had Jadad scores of ≥ 3; only 0.4% of studies showed a high risk of bias from randomization. Thirteen per cent had a high risk of bias from blinding and 10.1% had a high risk of bias from unknown outcomes of all participants in the studies. In 18.5% of the studies the authors declared that they followed an intention-to-treat protocol; imputation for missing DLQI data was used in 34.4% of studies.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review provides a wealth of evidence of the use of the DLQI in clinical trials to inform researchers' and -clinicians' decisions for its further use. Recommendations are also made for improving the reporting of data from future RCTs using the DLQI.

Efficacy of sesame oil versus placebo in the management of acute radiation-induced dermatitis in breast cancer patients: A double-blind randomized clinical trial

AIM

Considering the anti-inflammatory and positive effects of sesame oil in treating skin diseases, the present research aimed to study its therapeutic effects on acute radiotherapy dermatitis in such patients.

METHODS

Forty women with breast cancer during radiotherapy (for 5 weeks) were randomly grouped into two categories: sesame oil (20 patients) and placebo (20 patients). After each radiotherapy session, they were asked to use 3cc of the ointment on the treating field and continue the treatment until the end. They were examined weekly according to the staging criteria of the radiation therapy oncology group.

RESULTS

No significant difference was observed in the first 3 weeks. In the fourth week, dermatitis grade 0 was 35%, grade 1 was 65%, and grade 2 was 0% in the intervention (case) group, while in the control group, they were 10%, 75%, and 15%, respectively. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.046). Also, in the fifth week in the case group, dermatitis grade 0 was 25%, grade 1 was 70%, and grade 2 was 5%, while in the control group, they were 0%, 80%, and 20%, respectively. This difference was also statistically significant (p = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings, sesame oil, as a cheap and available herbal treatment, may be utilized in treating acute dermatitis caused by radiotherapy. However, an investigation with a larger sample size in several centers should be conducted to examine sesame oil effects in treating acute radio dermatitis more comprehensively.

MASCC clinical practice guidelines for the prevention and management of acute radiation dermatitis: part 1) systematic review

Acute radiation dermatitis (ARD) commonly develops in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy and is often characterized by erythema, desquamation, and pain. A systematic review was conducted to summarize the current evidence on interventions for the prevention and management of ARD. Databases were searched from 1946 to September 2020 to identify all original studies that evaluated an intervention for the prevention or management of ARD, with an updated search conducted in January 2023. A total of 235 original studies were included in this review, including 149 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Most interventions could not be recommended due to a low quality of evidence, lack of supporting evidence, or conflicting findings across multiple trials. Photobiomodulation therapy, Mepitel® film, mometasone furoate, betamethasone, olive oil, and oral enzyme mixtures showed promising results across multiple RCTs. Recommendations could not be made solely based on the published evidence due to limited high-quality evidence. As such, Delphi consensus recommendations will be reported in a separate publication.

Efficacy of Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate in Preventing Dermatitis in Patients With Breast Cancer Receiving Postoperative Radiotherapy: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 2 Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Safe and effective prophylactic therapies for radiation-induced dermatitis (RID) remain an unmet need.

Objective

To determine if epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) solution reduces the incidence of RID in patients undergoing radiotherapy after breast cancer surgery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This phase 2 double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial enrolled 180 patients with breast cancer receiving postoperative radiotherapy at Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute in Shandong, China, between November 2014 and June 2019. Data analysis was performed from September 2019 to January 2020.

Interventions

Participants were randomly assigned (2:1) to receive either EGCG solution (660 μmol/L) or placebo (0.9% NaCl saline) sprayed to the whole radiation field from day 1 of the radiation until 2 weeks after radiation completion.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was incidence of grade 2 or worse RID, defined by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scale. The secondary end points included RID index (RIDI), symptom index, changes in the skin temperature measured by infrared thermal images, and safety.

Results

A total of 180 eligible patients were enrolled, of whom 165 (EGCG, n = 111; placebo, n = 54) were evaluable for efficacy (median [range] age, 46 [26-67] years). The occurrence of grade 2 or worse RID was significantly lower (50.5%; 95% CI, 41.2%-59.8%) in the EGCG group than in the placebo group (72.2%; 95% CI, 60.3%-84.1%) (P = .008). The mean RIDI in the EGCG group was significantly lower than that in the placebo group. Furthermore, symptom indexes were significantly lower in patients receiving EGCG. Four patients (3.6%) had adverse events related to the EGCG treatment, including grade 1 pricking skin sensation (3 [2.7%]) and pruritus (1 [0.9%]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial, prophylactic use of EGCG solution significantly reduced the incidence and severity of RID in patients receiving adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer. It has the potential to become a new choice of skin care for patients receiving radiotherapy.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02580279.

Impact of Tobacco Smoking on Outcomes of Radiotherapy: A Narrative Review

The carcinogenic role of tobacco smoking is well recognized, but the detrimental effects of continued smoking after a cancer diagnosis have been underestimated. Radiotherapy is among the main treatment modalities for cancer. We reviewed the literature data concerning the impact of tobacco smoking on treatment outcomes in radiotherapy-managed patients with various malignancies. Most of the analyzed studies demonstrated the detrimental effect of smoking on overall survival, tumor control, quality of life, treatment toxicity, and the incidence of second primary malignancies. Healthcare professionals should use the cancer diagnosis and treatment as a teachable moment and recommend their patients to immediately cease smoking. Wherever possible, cancer patients should undergo an intensive smoking-cessation program, including behavioral and pharmacologic therapy.

Topical sucralfate for treatment of mucocutaneous conditions: A systematic review on clinical evidence

Sucralfate is an aluminum salt of sucrose octasulfate, generally considered safe in terms of adverse effects. Systemic sucralfate is FDA-approved for the treatment of duodenal ulcers. Since 1991, topical sucralfate has been used in various mucocutaneous conditions, but it is not approved by the FDA yet. In this systematic review, the online databases were searched with appropriate keywords, and the papers were screened by the authors. After screening steps, the relevant articles were selected according to the inclusions and exclusions criteria. Finally, the full texts of 18 articles were included for final evaluations. In conclusion, topical sucralfate has some clinical benefit in several mucocutaneous conditions, including mucocutaneous inflammatory conditions (e.g., post-radiotherapy reaction, diaper dermatitis, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, etc.), mucocutaneous infectious disorders (e.g., peristomal wound reaction / Infection); ulcers; burns, and also pain relief.

Effect of Heparinoid Moisturizer on Quality of Life in Patients with Acute Radiation Skin Damage Following Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy After Breast-Conserving Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Study

Background

With few research reports on the effects of moisturizer use for dry skin associated with radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery on patient quality of life (QOL), we conducted a randomized controlled trial to investigate this effect.

Methods

Patients with breast cancer were randomly assigned to receive either heparinoid moisturizer (Group M) or no treatment (Group C). Group M was instructed to apply heparinoid moisturizer during 3 weeks of hypofractionated whole-breast irradiation with or without boost until 4 weeks after completion of irradiation. Skin-related QOL was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) for 7 weeks. The primary endpoint was total DLQI score at 4 weeks after the start date.

Results

In total, 35 patients in Group M and 37 patients in Group C were analyzed. The DLQI total score (2.06 ± 2.17: mean ± SD) at 4 weeks in Group M was slightly lower than in Group C (2.16 ± 2.13) but with no significant difference (p = 0.894). The “Symptoms and feelings” subscore indicated significant worsening at 3 weeks and maintained until 7 weeks in Group C. There was no significant change for this subscore during radiotherapy in Group M, and it significantly increased after radiotherapy (4–5 weeks) and returned to baseline in 7 weeks. The period of subscore worsening was shorter in Group M than in Group C.

Conclusion

Concomitant and extended use of heparinoid moisturizer with radiation therapy may improve the QOL of breast cancer patients impaired by dry skin for patients with breast cancer.

Topical application of Jatyadi Ghrita and Jatyadi Taila accelerates wound healing in Sprague-Dawley rats: a study in gamma-radiation-induced skin wound model

PURPOSE

Radiation-induced skin wounds/dermatitis can occur due to therapeutic, occupational, or accidental exposure to ionizing radiation. This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of standardized Ayurvedic formulations [Jatyadi ghrita (JG) and Jatyadi taila (JT)] against ⁶⁰Co-γ-radiation-induced acute skin wounds in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Animal's [Sprague-Dawley rats (200 ± 20 g)] flanked skin was locally exposed to 45 Gy radiation (R45Gy) in Cobalt-60-teletherapy unit (Bhabhatron) to generate radiation wounds. JG and JT were applied topically twice daily on wounds from day 14 onwards after appearance of moist desquamation and wound healing efficacy was observed for a period of 42 days.

RESULTS

R45Gy induced significant time dependent changes in rat's skin with erythema on day 7 followed by dry and moist desquamation. JG and JT application significantly (p < .001) reduced skin damage score, wound area (92% and 97% respectively on day 42), and bacterial load, when compared with R45Gy and showed better efficacy than sucralfate and betamethasone (positive controls). Formulations significantly reduced lipid peroxidation and enhanced antioxidant defenses, reduced inflammatory infiltrates and collagen fibers deposition as evident by decreased myeloperoxidase and hydroxyproline levels, and also reduced transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) expression. Further, histology revealed reduced epidermal hyperplasia and dermal thinning with improved densities of hair follicles. Formulations were found to be nontoxic on 28 days application.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated that JG and JT accelerated wound healing in irradiated skin tissue by faster re-epithelialization; reducing inflammation, collagen fibers deposition, and TGF-β1 expression, indicated their potential human application in countering radiation wounds.

Efficacy of sucralfate ointment in the prevention of acute proctitis in cancer patients: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Background:

Acute radiation proctitis (ARP) is a usual adverse effect in patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy. The symptoms include diarrhea, rectal blood or mucus discharge, fecal urgency and tenesmus with pain. Sucralfate, an aluminum-based salt of sucrose octasulfate, is a cytoprotective agent that forms a coating barrier at injured sites by adhering to mucoproteins. It has been used in topical management of a wide variety of local lesion. This study was designed to evaluate the preventive effect of rectal sucralfate on acute radiotherapy induced proctitis.

Methods:

Seven percent sucralfate ointment was prepared for topical use. Drug quantification, chemical stability and microbial limit tests were performed carefully. In this randomized double blind placebo controlled trial, fifty-seven patients with pelvic malignancies undergoing radiotherapy were allocated to receive either 1 g of sucralfate or 1 g of placebo, given as a twice daily ointment, one day before and during radiotherapy for six weeks. The eligible patients were evaluated based on RTOG acute toxicity criteria and the following ARP symptoms weekly: rectal hemorrhage, diarrhea, rectal pain, and fecal urgency. The influence of symptoms on lifestyle was also recorded weekly.

Results:

Acute proctitis was significantly less prevalent in patients in the sucralfate group. The incidence of rectal bleeding (P=0.003), diarrhea (P=0.002), rectal pain (P=<0.001) and fecal urgency (P=0.002) was significantly less common in the sucralfate group. No statistical significant difference was observed for radiotherapy induced cystitis in the placebo and sucralfate groups (P=0.27).

Conclusion:

This study suggests that sucralfate7% ointment reduces the incidence of symptoms associated with acute radiation proctitis.

An evaluation of the skincare management of patients receiving radiotherapy for breast cancer

Aim:

Breast cancer patients experience skin reactions during radiotherapy. Radiation-induced skin reactions can result in treatment delivery being interrupted. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the skincare management of patients receiving radiotherapy for breast cancer in order to inform best practice.

Method:

A literature search was undertaken using USearch and HONNI in support of the first-hand evidence gained from the supervised on-treatment review of patients receiving radiotherapy for breast cancer.

Results:

There is evidence to suggest that the skincare advice given to patients varies widely between departments in the UK with many not following nationally recommended guidelines. Studies demonstrate that there are ways to reduce skin reactions and that there are a range of effective management strategies being adopted. Prophylactic skincare has been explored to improve the resilience of the skin prior to commencing radiotherapy.

Findings:

Further investigation is required in order to clearly establish the optimum national skincare management for breast cancer patients. More studies are required to test the effectiveness and viability of prophylactic measures. Skincare guidance needs to be robustly developed and effectively promoted by therapeutic radiographers for radiotherapy patients to benefit from reduced, radiation-induced, skin reactions.

Radiation-induced skin injury: pathogenesis, treatment, and management

Radiation-induced skin injury (RSI) refers to a frequently occurring complication of radiation therapy. Nearly 90% of patients having received radiation therapy underwent moderate-to-severe skin reactions, severely reducing patients' quality of life and adversely affecting their disease treatment. No gold standard has been formulated for RSIs. In the present study, the mechanism of RSI and topical medications was discussed. Besides, this study can be referenced for clinicians to treat RSIs to guide subsequent clinical medicine.

Mepitel Film is superior to Biafine cream in managing acute radiation-induced skin reactions in head and neck cancer patients: a randomised intra-patient controlled clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

We previously showed that Mepitel Film decreased the severity of acute radiation-induced skin reactions in head and neck cancer patients. In the current study, we compared the effect of Mepitel Film and Biafine cream on skin reaction severity in a larger cohort of head and neck cancer patients.

METHODS

A total of 44 head and neck cancer patients were recruited with 39 patients contributing full data sets for analysis. Patients received a dose of 50 Gy in 25 fractions to the bilateral lymph nodes in the neck. Left and right lymph node areas were randomised to either Mepitel Film or Biafine cream, applied prophylactically. Skin reaction severity was measured using Radiation-Induced Skin Reaction Assessment Scale (RISRAS) and expanded Radiation Oncology group (RTOG) grades. Skin dose was measured using gafchromic Film.

RESULTS

Skin reaction severity (combined RISRAS score) underneath Mepitel Film was decreased by 30% (P < 0.001) and moist desquamation rates by 41% (P < 0.001). Skin dose underneath Mepitel Film and Biafine cream was similar (P = 0.925) and unlikely to have affected skin reaction severity. The vast majority (80%) of patients preferred Mepitel Film over Biafine cream. Negative aspects of Mepitel Film included poor adherence (11/39) and discomfort (16/39) during hot weather and showering and itchy skin underneath Mepitel Film (12/39).

CONCLUSIONS

Mepitel Film was superior to Biafine cream in reducing the severity of acute radiation-induced skin reactions and moist desquamation incidence in our head and neck patient cohort.

Topical treatment of radiation-induced dermatitis: current issues and potential solutions

Approximately 95% of patients receiving radiotherapy (RT) will ultimately develop radiation-induced dermatitis (RID) during or after the course of treatment, with major consequences on quality of life and treatment outcomes. This paper reviews the pathophysiology of RID and currently used topical products for the prevention and treatment of RID. Although there is no consensus on the appropriate management, recent evidence suggests that the use of topical products supports to protect and promote tissue repair in patients with RID. Basic recommendations include advice to wear loose clothing, using electric razors if necessary, and avoiding cosmetic products, sun exposure or extreme temperatures. Based on mechanisms involved and on the clinical characteristics of oncological patients, the profile of the ideal topical product for addressing RID can be designed; it should have limited risk of adverse events, systemic adsorption and drug–drug interactions, should be characterized by multiple clinical activities, with a special focus on localized pain, and should have a careful formulation as some vehicles can block the RT beam.

The impact of smoking on adjuvant breast cancer radiation treatment: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The influence of cigarette smoking on cancer risk has been well-studied. Similarly, exposure to ionizing radiation from radiotherapy (RT) can produce detrimental effects on an individual's health. In patients administered RT, there has been an observed relationship in other primary carcinomas. The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize the influence of cigarette smoking on outcomes post adjuvant RT in breast cancer patients.

METHODS

OVID Medline, Cochrane and Embase were searched and 1893 articles were identified. A total of 71 articles were included in the review. Study type, published year and sample size, age, systemic therapies, RT techniques and treatment side effects were collected if available.

RESULTS

The review found 198 different outcomes which fell into 7 categories and similar outcomes were recorded. 40% of skin reaction outcomes, 50% of cardiovascular outcomes, 71% of reconstruction outcomes, 29% of pulmonary function outcomes, 33% of mortality outcomes and 42% of secondary recurrence outcomes reported significant differences between smokers and non-smokers. None of the articles reported non-smokers to have a higher risk than smokers.

CONCLUSION

Cigarette smoking can pose a higher risk of post-treatment complications that can influence an individual's quality of life, survival rate and/or recurrence risk. This review further assessed the impact of smoking on various patient outcomes and side-effects in the adjuvant breast RT setting. The information provided in this review suggest that smoking cessation programs would help educate patients to understand their risks of being a current or former smoker when undergoing RT.

Reducing Radiation Dermatitis Using a Film-forming Silicone Gel During Breast Radiotherapy: A Pilot Randomized-controlled Trial

BACKGROUND/AIM

To evaluate whether topical use of a film-forming silicone gel (StrataXRT®) could reduce radiation dermatitis compared to a moisturizing cream (X-derm®) in patients receiving whole breast radiotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 56 patients with breast cancer were randomized to use StrataXRT or X-derm. The severity of radiation dermatitis was graded using physiological skin parameters, clinician-assessed visual rating scales and patient-reported symptoms. Changes in these parameters from baseline to 4 weeks post-radiotherapy were evaluated every two weeks.

RESULTS

Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA revealed different patterns of changes in the erythema index (F=3.609, p=0.008) and melanin index (F=3.475, p=0.015). The post hoc analysis demonstrated a significantly lower erythema index and melanin index in the patients allocated to the StrataXRT group.

CONCLUSION

The use of StrataXRT can reduce radiation dermatitis with respect to objectively measured physiological skin parameters. The results of the present study will support the feasibility of conducting a larger randomized controlled trial.

An audit of radiation-induced skin reactions in the inframammary fold; does breast size impact on the severity of the reaction?

INTRODUCTION

Skin toxicity is a clinically significant side effect of external beam radiation; moist desquamation is particularly prevalent for breast patients, mainly in the axilla and inframammary fold (IMF). The aim of this audit was to assess if there is a correlation between patient breast size and the presence and extent of radiotherapy skin reaction in the IMF.

METHODS

Between 22/12/2017 and 31/05/2018 forty patients undergoing standard whole breast radiotherapy using 3D planned medial and lateral tangential fields had their skin reaction recorded weekly, whilst on treatment, using the Radiotherapy Oncology Group (RTOG) scoring system. Skin reactions were also documented at three and eight weeks post radiotherapy. A measurement of the patients IMF length and bra size were also noted. Statistical analysis was carried out using IBMÒ SPSS Statistics 24.

RESULTS

Six patients presented with grade ≥2 during week three of radiotherapy. The mean IMF length of six patients with adverse reactions 6.1 cm (±3.6 cm). As the length of the IMF increases, severity of skin reactions also increases; a positive correlation was identified between the two at both week three of radiotherapy and three weeks post radiotherapy (r = 0.401, n = 34, p = 0.05 and r = 0.671, n = 29, p = 0.00 respectively). Only one patient displayed grade 2 at eight weeks post radiotherapy (IMF length 7.5 cm).

CONCLUSION

The findings from this study would suggest that larger breasted patients do present earlier, and with more severe radiation-induced skin reactions.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Changes to skin care practice could be considered for patients with larger breasts. This could be in the form of more frequent check-ups during treatment or proactive side effect management rather than reactive management.

Effectiveness of hyaluronic acid gel (Jalosome soothing gel) for the treatment of radiodermatitis in a patient receiving head and neck radiotherapy associated with cetuximab: A case report and review

One of the principal side effects in patients that receive radiotherapy is radiodermatitis. Radiodermatitis can be highly invalidating for patients, causing pain, ulceration, swelling, and increased infection risk, with a negative effect on the quality of life, requiring dressings and medications. Therapeutic approaches reported so far in the literature have not proved to be effective in treating radiodermatitis. Therefore, new approaches are needed to deal with these side effects more effectively. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid gel (HAG) (Jalosome soothing gel) for the treatment of a case of radiodermatitis. This is a case study of a patient affected by squamous cell carcinoma at the tongue base, who was treated with head and neck radiotherapy associated with the administration of cetuximab. About 1 month after this therapy was started the patient developed radiodermatitis, which did not regress with standard treatment. Therefore, HAG was applied once a day for about 20 days. The regression of radiodermatitis was measured using the Radiation Toxicity/Oncology Grading scale, pain relief was measured with a numerical scale, and patient satisfaction was done through a semi-structured interview. The patient presented a dramatic reduction of skin toxicity, which had been resistant to all previous therapeutic approaches. Pain, which was severe at the beginning, gradually disappeared. The patient showed great satisfaction for the reduction of pain and the regression of the radiodermatitis. The effectiveness of HAG appears to be promising for the treatment of radiodermatitis.

The Impact of Radiodermatitis on Breast Cancer Patients' Quality of Life During Radiotherapy: A Prospective Cohort Study

CONTEXT

In the oncology field, quality of life (QoL) is recognized as an essential component. However, few studies have evaluated radiotherapy (RT) and its adverse events, specifically radiodermatitis.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of radiodermatitis severity on QoL of women with breast cancer (BC) throughout RT.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted with 100 BC patients evaluated weekly during RT. The Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire and the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scale were used. The generalized estimated equations were used to examine the association between the total score of QoL and their domains, time of RT, and the radiodermatitis score, controlled by confounding factors. Estimated marginal means and 95% CIs were compared pairwise by applying Sequential Sidak.

RESULTS

The total QoL score and their domains (work/school, leisure, daily activities, symptoms, and feelings) were significantly associated with the evaluation times of RT (P < 0.001), the radiodermatitis score (P ≤ 0.002), and the interaction between timing (T) of treatment and radiodermatitis score (P < 0.001). When assessing post hoc, it was identified that the worst QoL scores were in the presence of Grade 3 (mean = 6.00) in T3 and Grade 4 (6.50; 7.00) in T5 and T6, respectively, and this difference was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

RT negatively influenced the QoL of women with BC, with the greatest impact resulting from severe radiodermatitis. Actions aimed at minimizing the impairment on QoL need to be adopted to make this exhausting process less traumatic and easier to complete.

Phase III Randomized Pair Comparison of a Barrier Film vs. Standard Skin Care in Preventing Radiation Dermatitis in Post-lumpectomy Patients with Breast Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Radiation Therapy

Introduction

Patients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy to the breast often experience radiation dermatitis ranging from mild erythema to moist desquamation. In post-lumpectomy patients, the axilla and inframammary fold are at an increased risk for friction dermatitis. Dermatitis can impact patients’ quality-of-life and may require treatment break/cessation. Our objectives are to assess the efficacy of 3M Cavilon Barrier Film (BF) in preventing and/or delaying the onset of grade-two dermatitis and reducing patient-reported sensation scores.

Methods

A total of 55 patients were randomized to receive BF on the medial or lateral breast. BF was applied twice weekly during treatment. Skin toxicity was evaluated weekly by a blinded clinical investigator using the Skin Toxicity Assessment Tool (STAT) and the modified Radiation Therapy Oncology Group Visual Assessment Score (RTOG VAS). On day one, baseline photographs were taken; seven-to-ten days post-treatment, patients returned for photographs, the STAT/RTOG VAS, and patient-opinion questions in the form of the global questionnaire.

Results

The paired analysis found BF did not significantly reduce dermatitis either during or post-treatment. However, the unpaired analysis found significantly reduced RTOG VAS on the lateral compartment during treatment (BF:0.91 vs. Control:1.21, p = 0.0408). This difference resolved post-treatment. Additionally, BF was able to reduce pruritus (p = 0.047) on the medial components and burning sensations on the lateral components (p = 0.035). There was no significant difference between the time-to-onset or proportion of patients who developed grade-two dermatitis.

Conclusion

In an unpaired analysis, BF significantly reduced dermatitis on the lateral compartment during treatment. Additionally, BF significantly reduced pruritus and burning sensations. A larger study using a more reliable scoring method is required to clarify the effect of BF on radiation-associated skin toxicity.

Cutaneous radiation damage: updating a clinically challenging concern

Cutaneous radiation damage, commonly referred to as radiation dermatitis, is a finding of considerable concern. The exposure is often from radiation therapy, a double-edged sword, removing malignant cancer cells and improving the lives of countless patients, yet being locally destructive and potentially premalignant. Among its negative consequences and complications, radiation dermatitis, a potentially severe skin reaction that occurs after the receipt of radiation therapy, presents a clinical challenge today. There are two types of cutaneous radiation dermatitis: acute and chronic. Acute radiation dermatitis manifests within 90 days after the induction of radiation therapy while chronic radiation dermatitis develops beyond 90 days of radiation. There are many risk factors associated with radiation dermatitis which can be characterized as intrinsic, extrinsic, or both. Intrinsic risk factors include concurrent chemotherapy and targeted therapy, connective tissue and skin disorders, genetic and personal factors such as age, sex, smoking habits, and nutritional status. Extrinsic factors are mainly related to the type and dose of the radiation received. Treatment options have been enhanced in the last decade, providing patients with better outcomes and improved quality of life. Such treatments include topical ointments and therapies, oral enzymes, wound dressings and surgical treatments. This article aims to review the current medical understanding of radiation dermatitis, its risk factors, pathophysiology, and treatment options.

Radiodermatitis - review of treatment options

Radiation dermatitis is one of the commonest side effects of ionizing radiation which is applied in radiotherapy of carcinoma of all localizations, most frequently of tumors of breast, head and neck region, lungs and soft tissue sarcomas. It usually occurs as a complication of breast radiotherapy and thus it is more often recorded in female patients on the skin in the region of breast subjected to radiation. Clinical manifestations of radiation dermatitis can be divided into four phases: acute phase (erythema, dry desquamation, moist desquamation, ulceration and necrosis with resulting re-epithelialization, residual post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, reduction and suppression of sebaceous and sweat glands and epilation); subacute phase (hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation, telangiectasia, skin atrophy, even ulceration); chronic phase (skin atrophy, dermal fibrosis and permanent skin epilation) and late phase (increased risk of skin cancer). In order to prevent radiation dermatitis, skin care products should be applied throughout radiotherapy that will decrease the frequency of skin reactions or block them and thus improve life quality. Although the therapy includes not only topical corticosteroids but numerous other products with active ingredients such as aloe vera, calendula, hyaluronic acid, sucralfat, sorbolene, mineral and olive oil, honey, vitamin C, zinc, antimicrobials and silver, common therapeutic consensus has not been reached on their application in radiation dermatitis. Therefore, the treatment should be conducted according to the basic guidelines but tailor-made for each individual patient.

Prophylactically applied Hydrofilm polyurethane film dressings reduce radiation dermatitis in adjuvant radiation therapy of breast cancer patients

PURPOSE

Radiation-induced skin injury represents one of the most common side effects in breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant whole-breast radiotherapy. Numerous systemic and topical treatments have been studied in the prevention and management of radiation-induced skin injury without providing sustainable treatment strategies. While superficial barrier-forming skin products such as dressings are the standard of care in wound care management, their utilization as preventive treatment approach in radiotherapy has barely attracted attention.

METHODS

In this prospective, intra-patient randomized study, Hydrofilm polyurethane film dressings were applied prophylactically to either the medial or lateral breast half of 62 patients with breast cancer undergoing adjuvant radiation therapy following breast conserving surgery. The breast half contralateral to the film dressing was concurrently treated with 5% urea lotion as control skin care. Maximum severity of radiation dermatitis was assessed using RTOG/EORTC toxicity scores, photospectrometric erythema measurements and patient-assessed modified RISRAS scale.

RESULTS

In the Hydrofilm compartments, mean maximum RTOG/EORTC radiation dermatitis severity grades were significantly reduced from 1.33 to 0.35 and photospectrometric measurements showed significantly reduced erythema severity, as compared to the control compartments, with an overall response rate of 89.3%. Hydrofilm completely prevented moist desquamation and significantly reduced patients' subjective experience of itching and pain.

CONCLUSION

The obtained results along with a favorable cost-benefit ratio and an easy and quick application suggest a prophylactic application of Hydrofilm in adjuvant radiotherapy of breast cancer patients to reduce or even prevent radiation dermatitis.

Efficacy of heparinoid moisturizer as a prophylactic agent for radiation dermatitis following radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery: a randomized controlled trial

Background

The application of heparinoid moisturizer for 2 weeks following whole-breast radiotherapy (WBRT) was previously reported to significantly increase skin water content (WC) and help improve skin dryness and desquamation. The prospective open-label, randomized trial included an exploratory arm to investigate the preventive efficacy of heparinoid moisturizer for acute radiation dermatitis (ARD).

Methods

Between April 2011 and April 2013, patients receiving WBRT were assigned (1:2:2) to receive either: moisturizer for prophylaxis (group P), moisturizer starting 2 weeks after WBRT for treatment (group M), and no moisturizer (group C). This paper presents the results of comparison between the exploratory arm and no moisturizer group. Skin WC was measured prior to WBRT, on the last day of WBRT, and 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 3 months following WBRT. Signs and symptoms were also assessed.

Results

Comparing two groups, WC values were significantly higher in group P until 4 weeks following WBRT. At 2 weeks following WBRT, mean WC values in group P and C were 38.5 ± 6.1 arbitrary units (a.u.) and 30.2 ± 7.8 a.u., respectively (P < 0.001). In group C, dryness was more severe at 2 and 4 weeks following WBRT and desquamation more severe until 3 months following WBRT. However, the erythema score showed no difference between the two groups. Regarding symptoms, group C pain scores on the last day of WBRT were significantly higher than in group P (P < 0.030).

Conclusions

The preventive application of heparinoid moisturizer has the potential of reducing skin desquamation and dryness in patients receiving WBRT.

Effectiveness of Topical Sucralfate in the Management of Pressure Ulcer in Hospitalized Patients: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of topical sucralfate in the management of pressure ulcer (PU) in hospitalized patients.

METHODS

Forty hospitalized patients with stage II PU were included in this prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial and were randomly divided into 2 groups receiving either sucralfate gel or placebo, on a daily basis. The patients were visited every day for 14 days, the ulcer was evaluated using the Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing (PUSH) and changes to the measured scores over time were used as an indicator of wound healing.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in any of the demographic characteristics between both groups. Both of the interventions reduced the average PUSH score, and at the end of the trial, all but 2 patients were healed. One in each group discontinued the trial because of exacerbation of the ulcer. No significant between-group difference in the average PUSH score reduction was observed (6.36 ± 2.11 vs. 5.89 ± 1.41, P = 0.42). Although the average healing time was less in the sucralfate group (6.05 ± 2.17 vs. 7.78 ± 3.42), the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Sucralfate gel does not improve healing of PU compared with placebo.

Radiotherapy for a breast cancer patient with Schnitzler syndrome: Report of acute toxicity and early follow-up

This article provides description about acute toxicity and early follow-up of one patient treated for breast cancer and Schnitzler syndrome. There are no previously reported cases exploring this interaction on medical literature. The expected radiodermitis to occur in the region treated with radiotherapy along with urticarial-like lesions might be challenging in view of the interaction between symptoms and therapeutic measures.

The neck burn scar contracture: a concept of effective treatment

A neck scar contracture can severely and negatively affect the function of mastication, phonic, or breathing and result in neck pain and issues with esthetics. The best way is of course to avoid such contracture by means of non-surgical treatment such as use of a growth factor. The basic fibroblastic growth factor is clinically well proven in decreasing scar formation and improving healing. There are numerous reconstructive methods for neck contracture, especially when the lesions are relatively limited in part of the neck. However, a very severe and full circumferential scar contracture requires extensive reconstruction. The thin groin flap is one of the answers and well matches with the tissue texture and maintains the flexibility. Even with extensive burns and delayed reconstructions due to resuscitation first, the groin area is well preserved and can be safely harvested by dual vasculature systems of the superficial circumflex iliac artery and superficial epigastric artery, which warrant more reliability compared to the perforator flaps in this area. More demanding and stringent forms of the neck burn scar contracture are the sequelae of radiation. A radiation burn or radiation injury can be progressing and hard to heal. Adipose-derived stem cells can reverse the scar contracture as the surrounding tissue is softened and can accelerate wound healing. In this review, different types of neck burn scar contracture and reconstructive methods are summarized, including innovative use of bFGF and ADSCs in the management of difficult wound healing and scar contracture.

Barriers and facilitators to smoking cessation in a cancer context: A qualitative study of patient, family and professional views

Background

Continued smoking after cancer adversely affects quality of life and survival, but one fifth of cancer survivors still smoke. Despite its demands, cancer presents an opportunity for positive behaviour change. Smoking often occurs in social groups, therefore interventions which target families and individuals may be more successful. This qualitative study explored patients, family members and health professionals’ views and experiences of smoking and smoking cessation after cancer, in order to inform future interventions.

Methods

In-depth qualitative interviews (n = 67) with 29 patients, 14 family members and 24 health professionals. Data were analysed using the ‘Framework’ method.

Results

Few patients and family members had used National Health Service (NHS) smoking cessation services and more than half still smoked. Most recalled little ‘smoking-related’ discussion with clinicians but were receptive to talking openly. Clinicians revealed several barriers to discussion. Participants’ continued smoking was explained by the stress of diagnosis; desire to maintain personal control; and lack of connection between smoking, cancer and health.

Conclusions

A range of barriers to smoking cessation exist for patients and family members. These are insufficiently assessed and considered by clinicians. Interventions must be more effectively integrated into routine practice.

Acute radiation dermatitis in breast cancer patients: challenges and solutions

Nearly all women who receive radiotherapy (RT) for breast cancer experience some degree of radiation dermatitis. However, evidence describing the appropriate management of radiation dermatitis is often lacking or contradictory. Here, we summarize the available literature regarding radiation dermatitis causes, the presentation and timing of symptoms, methods for dermatitis assessment and prevention, and review evidence-based management strategies.

Efficacy of a hydroactive colloid gel versus historical controls for the prevention of radiotherapy-induced moist desquamation in breast cancer patients

PURPOSE

Radiotherapy-induced moist desquamation (RIMD) is a complication that can affect patients' quality of life and jeopardize radiotherapy outcomes. The curative use of a hydroactive colloid gel has previously been shown effective in the management of RIMD in breast cancer patients. This study aimed at investigating the efficacy of this same gel but in the prevention of RIMD.

METHODS

A group of breast cancer patients who applied the hydroactive gel from start to end of post-lumpectomy radiotherapy (Preventive Hydrogel group) were compared with two groups of matched historical controls: a group applying a dexpanthenol cream throughout their therapy and a group applying first the dexpanthenol cream then, after 11-14 fractions of radiotherapy, the hydroactive gel (Curative Hydrogel group). All patients received identical fractionation regimen. The clinical outcomes were the incidence and time to onset of RIMD.

KEY RESULTS

After 25 fractions of radiotherapy (50 Gy), patients in the Preventive Hydrogel group (N = 202) developed RIMD significantly less frequently and later than patients in the Dexpanthenol group (N = 131; incidence = 7% vs 35% respectively, odds ratios = 7.27; probability of RIMD-free survival after 50 Gy = 0.88 vs 0.62). There were no significant differences between the Preventive and the Curative Hydrogel group (N = 87).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings confirm our previous results: applying the hydroactive colloid gel, rather than dexpanthenol, delayed the onset and reduced the incidence of RIMD in breast cancer patients. However, applying the hydrogel preventively offered no statistically significant advantages over applying it curatively.

Current Status of Targeted Radioprotection and Radiation Injury Mitigation and Treatment Agents: A Critical Review of the Literature

As more cancer patients survive their disease, concerns about radiation therapy-induced side effects have increased. The concept of radioprotection and radiation injury mitigation and treatment offers the possibility to enhance the therapeutic ratio of radiation therapy by limiting radiation therapy-induced normal tissue injury without compromising its antitumor effect. Advances in the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of radiation toxicity have stimulated radiation oncologists to target these pathways across different organ systems. These generalized radiation injury mechanisms include production of free radicals such as superoxides, activation of inflammatory pathways, and vascular endothelial dysfunction leading to tissue hypoxia. There is a significant body of literature evaluating the effectiveness of various treatments in preventing, mitigating, or treating radiation-induced normal tissue injury. Whereas some reviews have focused on a specific disease site or agent, this critical review focuses on a mechanistic classification of activity and assesses multiple agents across different disease sites. The classification of agents used herein further offers a useful framework to organize the multitude of treatments that have been studied. Many commonly available treatments have demonstrated benefit in prevention, mitigation, and/or treatment of radiation toxicity and warrant further investigation. These drug-based approaches to radioprotection and radiation injury mitigation and treatment represent an important method of making radiation therapy safer.

Early biomarker for radiation-induced wounds: day one post-irradiation assessment using hemoglobin concentration measured from diffuse optical reflectance spectroscopy

Normal tissue radiation toxicities are evaluated subjectively and cannot predict the development of severe side-effects. Using a hand-held diffuse reflectance optical spectroscopy probe, we measured optical parameters in mouse skin 1-4 days after irradiation. Using a radiation toxicity model and a therapeutic mitigator described previously [BMC Cancer14, 614 (2014)], we found that hemoglobin (Hb) levels increased sharply 24 h after irradiation only in the irradiated group without the mitigator. This group also had the largest peak wound areas after 14 days. We conclude that increased Hb one day after skin irradiation predicts the severity of the subsequent irradiation-induced wound.

Effectiveness and Acceptability of a Moisturizing Cream and a Barrier Cream During Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer in the Tropics: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Inconsistent evidence about product effectiveness to prevent moist desquamation during radiation treatment and minimal research about the acceptability to patients of recommended products prompted this study.

OBJECTIVE

This randomized controlled trial compared the effectiveness of 2 creams at minimizing the incidence of moist desquamation in a tropical setting and explored which product was most acceptable to patients receiving radiation treatment.

METHODS

Participants (n = 255) were stratified according to breast or chest wall radiation treatment and randomly allocated to use a moisturizing or barrier cream. Nurses assessed radiation skin reactions weekly with a standardized grading system, and patients were telephoned 1 month after completing treatment for a final skin assessment. Participants completed an Acceptability Survey at similar times.

RESULTS

At treatment completion, 15% of participants had moist desquamation. An additional 26% self-reported this at follow-up. Risk factors for moist desquamation included increased breast cup size and body mass index. The barrier cream significantly reduced the incidence of moist desquamation during treatment in patients receiving radiation to the chest wall (χ = 3.93, P = .047). Participants preferred the barrier cream over the moisturizer (χ = 5.81, P = .02) during treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified a relatively high incidence of moist desquamation in patients receiving radiation therapy for breast cancer. Future patients will have information about product effectiveness in minimizing moist desquamation when choosing skin care products.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Structured discharge planning and patient education need to include information about factors that contribute to the likelihood of developing moist desquamation.

Colloidal oatmeal emollient as an alternative skincare approach in radiotherapy: a feasibility study

Aim

To assess the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) on patients receiving radical radiotherapy for carcinoma of the anus in order to compare the present skincare advice at the time of the study with an alternative product, Aveeno, used primarily for dermatological and chemotherapeutic-induced skin conditions.

Materials and method

Standardised Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) grading and skincare assessments were used primarily to inform on physical reactions within a RCT. A pre-existing morbidity/quality-of-life instrument ‘the Head and Neck Radiotherapy Questionnaire’, which was validated for use with radiotherapy patients in preceding studies, was adapted for anus patients and formed the secondary basis for data collection. In all, 24 participants undergoing radical radiotherapy for anal cancer were randomised into two arms, Aveeno cream versus Aqueous Cream BP, and reviewed weekly to collect data and perform analysis and Mann–Whitney U non-parametric statistical tests.

Results

RTOG gradings for skin reactions were comparable week by week across the cohorts, with a baseline 100% of participants exhibiting RTOG 0 at week 1 in all areas, through to week 6 where both cohorts had progressed to higher RTOG grades. The Aveeno cohort, however, indicated ap-value approaching significance in regards to epidermal regeneration at follow-up 1 (p=0·0543). Questionnaires yielded diminishing responses as treatment progressed correlating with advancing RTOG grades, and exhibited increasing negativity in responses in correlation with advancing RTOG grade exhibited.

Conclusion

The study was the first to recognise colloidal oatmeal as a skincare approach in the radiotherapy setting and recognises the potential benefits of Aveeno in radiation-induced skin reactions. The study determined the RTOG grading system to be robust as a method of evaluation of skin reactions and the questionnaires deemed the quality-of-life assessment to be a necessity in order to address patients’ psychological needs in addition to the physical needs.

Radiation dermatitis: an overview

Radiation therapy has been a commonly employed modality for a variety of ailments, including cancer. Patients undergoing radiation often experience acute and/or chronic skin changes that can be detrimental to their quality of life. Many topical agents and specialized wound dressings are being used for the prevention and management of radiation-induced skin changes. However, no single therapeutic option has been found to be consistently effective.

Acute and Chronic Cutaneous Reactions to Ionizing Radiation Therapy

Ionizing radiation is an important treatment modality for a variety of malignant conditions. However, development of radiation-induced skin changes is a significant adverse effect of radiation therapy (RT). Cutaneous repercussions of RT vary considerably in severity, course, and prognosis. When they do occur, cutaneous changes to RT are commonly graded as acute, consequential-late, or chronic. Acute reactions can have severe sequelae that impact quality of life as well as cancer treatment. Thus, dermatologists should be informed about these adverse reactions, know how to assess their severity and be able to determine course of management. The majority of measures currently available to prevent these acute reactions are proper skin hygiene and topical steroids, which limit the severity and decrease symptoms. Once acute cutaneous reactions develop, they are treated according to their severity. Treatments are similar to those used in prevention, but incorporate wound care management that maintains a moist environment to hasten recovery. Chronic changes are a unique subset of adverse reactions to RT that may develop months to years following treatment. Chronic radiation dermatitis is often permanent, progressive, and potentially irreversible with substantial impact on quality of life. Here, we also review the etiology, clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, prevention, and management of late-stage cutaneous reactions to radiotherapy, including chronic radiation dermatitis and radiation-induced fibrosis.

The Impact of Axillary Lymph Node Surgery on Breast Skin Thickening During and After Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

PURPOSE

This prospective study was conducted to determine predictors of epidermal thickening during and after whole-breast radiation therapy (XRT) using objective measurements acquired with ultrasound.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

After breast-conserving surgery, 70 women received a definitive course of whole-breast XRT (50 Gy plus boost). Prior to XRT, at week 6 of XRT, and 6 weeks after XRT, patients underwent objective ultrasound measurements of epidermal thickness over the lumpectomy cavity and all 4 quadrants of the treated breast. A skin thickness ratio (STRA) was then generated normalizing for corresponding measurements taken of the untreated breast.

RESULTS

Baseline measurements indicated that 87% of patients had skin thickening in the treated versus untreated breast (mean increase, 27%; SD, 0.29) prior to XRT. The STRA increased significantly by week 6 of XRT (mean, 25%; SD, 0.46) and continued to increase significantly 6 weeks after XRT (mean, 33%; SD, 0.46) above baseline measurements (P<.001 for both time points). On multivariate analysis, breast volume (P=.003) and surgical evaluation of the axilla with full lymph node dissection (P<.05) predicted for more severe changes in the STRA 6 weeks after XRT compared with baseline. STRA measurements correlated with physician ratings of skin toxicity according to Radiation Therapy Oncology Group grading criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

This is one of the first studies to objectively document that lymph node surgery affects XRT-induced skin thickening in patients with breast cancer. Surgical evaluation of the axilla with complete lymph node dissection was associated with the most severe XRT-induced skin changes after XRT completion. These results may inform future studies aimed at minimizing side effects of XRT and surgery, particularly when surgical lymph node assessments may not alter breast cancer management or outcome.

Radiodermatitis: A Review of Our Current Understanding

Radiodermatitis (radiation dermatitis, radiation-induced skin reactions, or radiation injury) is a significant side effect of ionizing radiation delivered to the skin during cancer treatment as well as a result of nuclear attacks and disasters, such as that which occurred in Fukushima in 2011. More specifically, 95 % of cancer patients receiving radiation therapy will develop some form of radiodermatitis, including erythema, dry desquamation, and moist desquamation. These radiation skin reactions result in a myriad of complications, including delays in treatment, diminished aesthetic appeal, and reduced quality of life. Recent technological advancements and novel treatment regimens have only been successful in partly ameliorating these adverse side effects. This article examines the current knowledge surrounding the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, differential diagnoses, prevention, and management of radiodermatitis. Future research should examine therapies that incorporate the current understanding of the pathophysiology of radiodermatitis while measuring effectiveness using objective and universal outcome measures.

Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy for the Quantitative Assessment of Acute Ionizing Radiation Induced Skin Toxicity Using a Mouse Model

Acute skin toxicities from ionizing radiation (IR) are a common side effect from therapeutic courses of external beam radiation therapy (RT) and negatively impact patient quality of life and long term survival. Advances in the understanding of the biological pathways associated with normal tissue toxicities have allowed for the development of interventional drugs, however, current response studies are limited by a lack of quantitative metrics for assessing the severity of skin reactions. Here we present a diffuse optical spectroscopic (DOS) approach that provides quantitative optical biomarkers of skin response to radiation. We describe the instrumentation design of the DOS system as well as the inversion algorithm for extracting the optical parameters. Finally, to demonstrate clinical utility, we present representative data from a pre-clinical mouse model of radiation induced erythema and compare the results with a commonly employed visual scoring. The described DOS method offers an objective, high through-put evaluation of skin toxicity via functional response that is translatable to the clinical setting.

Randomized, prospective assessment of moisturizer efficacy for the treatment of radiation dermatitis following radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery

Objective

The effect of heparinoid moisturizer use after acute skin damage for patients receiving whole-breast radiotherapy after lumpectomy is understudied.

Methods

A total of 30 patients were randomly assigned to receive heparinoid moisturizer (Group M), and 32 patients comprised the control group (Group C). Patients in Group M were instructed to apply heparinoid moisturizer from 2 weeks following whole-breast radiotherapy, and to continue to use the moisturizer until 3 months after completion of whole-breast radiotherapy. Group C patients were instructed to not apply any topical moisturizer during the study period. The relative ratio of skin water content ratio (RWCR_(t)= (I_t/N_t)/(I₀/N₀)) between irradiated and non-irradiated field was calculated. Signs and symptoms were also assessed. The primary endpoint was the difference in relative ratio of skin water content ratio between 2 and 4 weeks following whole-breast radiotherapy.

Results

In Group C, relative ratio of skin water content ratio dropped to 0.80 ± 0.15 at 2 weeks and maintained the low level at 4 weeks following whole-breast radiotherapy. Similarly, in Group M, relative ratio of skin water content ratio dropped to 0.81 ± 0.19 at 2 weeks (prior to application), however, it returned to baseline level (1.05 ± 0.23) at 4 weeks (2 weeks after application). The arithmetic difference of relative ratio of skin water content ratio in Group M was 0.24 ± 0.23 and was significantly larger than in Group C (0.06 ± 0.15; P < 0.01). Skin dryness and desquamation were less severe in Group M.

Conclusions

The application of heparinoid moisturizer for 2 weeks following whole-breast radiotherapy significantly increased water content and helped improve skin dryness and desquamation compared with no use of moisturizer.