What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Acute Radiation Burns
• Acute Radiodermatitis

What is Acute Radiation Dermatitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Radiation dermatitis is skin condition that occurs due to exposure to ionizing radiation, commonly from radiation therapy. It may be classified as acute and chronic
• Acute Radiation Dermatitis takes place immediately following radiation exposure, usually within a short period of time; the signs and symptoms are often immediate. The radiation damages the skin cells resulting in Acute Radiation Dermatitis
• There is an acute reaction of the skin following high-dose or intense radiation exposure. The condition manifests as redness of skin with pain that may last for a few weeks
• Acute Radiation Dermatitis can occur due to many factors such as radiation treatment for cancer, exposure during angiography, or accidental occupational exposure
• Many cases of Acute Radiation Dermatitis are reversible, though in some cases, treatment with topical steroidal creams is helpful. The condition typically resolves within a few weeks, usually without any complications

Who gets Acute Radiation Dermatitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Any individual who is exposed to ionizing radiation for a sufficient period of time may be affected by Acute Radiation Dermatitis
• There is no age, gender, race, or ethnicity preference for the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Acute Radiation Dermatitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Acute Radiation Dermatitis may include:

• Radiation therapy for acne
• Psoriasis treatment
• Fungal infection of scalp in children
• Accidental occupational exposure
• Radiation therapy for underlying malignancy
• Radiation exposure during angiography or angioplasty procedure

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes or Acute Radiation Dermatitis? (Etiology)

• Acute Radiation Dermatitis is caused by exposure of the skin to high-dose ionizing radiation, usually for a very short period of time. The condition may be described as a radiation burn
• The exposure may be intentional, such as due to medical treatment (for cancer), or accidental, such as occurring due to the nature of one’s occupation
• The radiation causes progressive damage to the skin cells resulting in the characteristic signs and symptoms. Also, some individuals have more sensitive skin and may react sooner to radiation exposure than others

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Acute Radiation Dermatitis?

The signs and symptoms of Acute Radiation Dermatitis may be seen within hours to a few days following radiation exposure. The common signs and symptoms observed may include:

• Pain and redness of skin in the affected area
• There may be an associated hair loss
• The redness usually lasts for 3-5 days, but pain can last for up to 3 weeks
• The condition can lead to blister formation, which may ulcerate and bleed
• The skin rashes are confined to a particular area, usually the area of exposure
• Any part of the body that is exposed to the radiation may be affected

How is Acute Radiation Dermatitis Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Acute Radiation Dermatitis may involve:

• A thorough physical examination of the patient to check for signs and symptoms with respect to the condition
• A complete evaluation of one’s medical history (including occupational history) to learn about the source of the condition
• A physical exam and medical/occupational history correlated with the signs and symptoms is usually sufficient to diagnose the condition

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Acute Radiation Dermatitis?

Acute Radiation Dermatitis could lead to the following complications namely:

• Any trauma to the blisters (such as picking or scratching) can result in bleeding, ulceration, resulting in secondary infections due to bacteria or fungus
• The skin condition may give rise to cosmetic concerns in some individuals
• Long-term exposure may result in skin cancer (arising from the exposed area)

How is Acute Radiation Dermatitis Treated?

• Acute Radiation Dermatitis is usually a self-resolving issue and no treatment may be generally required; since, after a period of time, the skin heals and returns to normal condition
• Taking a break from radiation therapy: The healthcare provider may decide not to expose the individual to radiation until the skin or scars heal
• In case treatment is required, the use of topical steroids (creams and lotions) is beneficial

A few self-care tips and home remedies for the condition may include:

• Scratching the affected areas must be completely avoided
• Apply cool wet compress to the affected skin
• A comfortable, cool bath may help soothe the skin
• Wearing smooth cotton clothes
• Use of mild perfumes, soaps, and detergents

How can Acute Radiation Dermatitis be Prevented?

The following measures may be adopted to prevent or reduce the risk of Acute Radiation Dermatitis:

• In case of a therapeutic exposure, decreasing the intensity of radiation provided may prevent the skin condition
• In case the skin is very sensitive to radiation therapy provided for treatment purposes, other alternative treatment measures may be explored
• In case of an occupational exposure, identification of the source of the ionizing radiation is very important, following which appropriate safety clothing or protective gear may be used
• Otherwise, the occupation or job-related tasks or habits may have to be suitably changed/modified
• Individuals who have received radiation therapy should decrease sun exposure; the use sun protection creams is recommended to protect the skin

What is the Prognosis of Acute Radiation Dermatitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

Acute Radiation Dermatitis usually resolves following discontinuation or stoppage of radiation; the condition is reversible in most cases.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Acute Radiation Dermatitis:

Avoid picking or scratching the blisters, for this can lead to complications, such as bleeding and ulceration of the lesions, resulting in superimposed infections.