Acute radiation dermatitis in breast cancer patients: challenges and solutions

Breast Cancer (Dove Med Press). 2017 May 5:9:313-323. doi: 10.2147/BCTT.S109763. eCollection 2017.

Abstract

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.

Keywords: breast cancer; radiation dermatitis; radiotherapy; skin toxicity.

Publication types

  • Review