Chronic radiodermatitis

Radioderm, chronic radiographic dermatitis, radioderm, radiodermia.

Dermatitis triggered by chronic exposure to ionising radiation (α-, β-, γ-, radium and boundary rays)

High doses of radiation.

Poikiloderma, atrophic, exsiccated skin with extensive telangiectasia. Loss of skin appendages and hypo- and hyperpigmentation. Poor healing tendency.

• Radiographic ulcer
• Radiographic keratosis
• Carcinoma development

• Regular dermatological examinations to exclude neoplasia
• Avoidance of trauma
• Stage-appropriate ulcer therapy

Topical therapy

• Topical steroids (short-term if necessary in case of pronounced inflammatory reaction)

• Mometasone fuorate cream / solution / ointment
• Clobetasol cream 1-2 dgl (for 1-3 days)

• Refatting local therapy

• Acetylsalicylic acid p.o. 500 mg 3x tgl.
• Tramadol 20-40 drops t.gl.
• Ibuprofen p.o. 400-800 mg tgl.
if needed

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3. Conejo-Mir JS, Moreno JC, Camacho F. Cryosurgical treatment of professional chronic radiodermatitis. Dermatol Surg 1997;23:483-6.
4. Richert B, de la Brassinne M. Subungual chronic radiodermatitis. Dermatology 1993;186:290-3.
5. Lebwohl, Mark. Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. Elsevier, 2014. Print.