Prevention And Treatment Of Acute Skin Reactions During Radiation Therapy: A Review Of The Literature

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for cancer patients. Acute radiation-induced skin occurs in the majority of the patients undergoing radical radiotherapy. It always draws a great attention of both prevention and treatment. While a variety of topical agents and dressing are used to prevent or to treat radiation-induced skin reactions, there is minimal evidence to support their use. In order to investigate the optimal methods to prevent and manage acute skin reactions related to radiation therapy, we conducted a literature review to identify trials that investigated medicine for the prophylaxis and management of acute radiation dermatitis. Thirty-five articles were reviewed. Topical corticosteroid agents were found to significantly reduce the severity of skin reactions; however, the trials of corticosteroids evaluated various agents. Amifostine and oral enzymes were somewhat effective in preventing radiation-induced skin reactions, but more large randomized controlled trials should be undertaken. There is insufficient evidence to support biafine cream for the prevention or management of acute skin reaction. The other products were studied, but the results varied. More valid methods are expected to prevent and treat acute skin reactions during radiation therapy.