Radiodermatitis acuta

Acute X-ray dermatitis, acute radiation dermatitis, acute radiodermatitis.

Dermatitis caused by ionising radiation (α-, β-, γ-, Radium- and Boundary Rays) within 6-12 days.

• Grade I: Erythema.
• Grade II: Vesicles and blisters. Loss of hair. 
• Grade III: ulcers, tissue necrosis.

Radiation protection measures.

Regular dermatological examinations to exclude neoplasia, which can occur with delay.

Not during radiation exposure (e.g. after the end of radiation therapy).

Grade I & II

• Mometasone furoate (Elocom®) Cream / Lsg. / Ointment
• Clobetasol (Dermovate®) cream 1-2 days (for 1-3 days)
• Tannins (Tannosynt®)- Lsg. (for hand baths).
• Iodine povidone (Betadine®) solution / ointment / ointment gauze

• Tricolosan (Procutol®) Skin Wash Lotion
• Polihexanide (Lavasept®) Concentration / Solution

Grade III: Stage-appropriate wound therapy

Systemic Therapy

• Acetylsalicylic acid p.o. 500 mg 3x daily
• Tramadol 20-40 drops daily
• Ibuprofen p.o. 400-800 mg daily if required.

1. Costa MM, Silva SB, Quinto AL, et al. Phototherapy 660 nm for the prevention of radiodermatitis in breast cancer patients receiving radiation therapy: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2014;15:330.
2. Palatty PL, Azmidah A, Rao S, et al. Topical application of a sandal wood oil and turmeric based cream prevents radiodermatitis in head and neck cancer patients undergoing external beam radiotherapy: a pilot study. Br J Radiol 2014;87:20130490.
3. Katayama Y, Yamawaki S, Yoshimura M, et al. Severe Acute Radiodermatitis in a Keloid Patient with Takayasu's Arteritis. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open 2014;2:e270.
4. Cui Z, Xin M, Yin H, Zhang J, Han F. Topical use of olive oil preparation to prevent radiodermatitis: results of a prospective study in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients. Int J Clin Exp Med 2015;8:11000-6.