Cutaneous Side Effects of Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy
October 2016
chemotherapy-induced alopecia scalp cooling methods toxic erythema of chemotherapy papulopustular eruptions EGFR inhibitors hypertrichosis nail changes dyspigmentation photosensitivity radiotherapy-associated recall reactions systemic steroids topical steroids chronic skin side effects ulcers vascular neoplasms morphoea panniculitis vitiligo chemotherapy hair loss scalp cooling TEC acne-like eruptions epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors excessive hair growth nail discoloration skin discoloration sun sensitivity radiation recall reactions oral steroids steroid creams skin ulcers blood vessel tumors localized scleroderma inflammation of fat tissue skin depigmentation
TLDR Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can cause skin side effects like rashes, hair loss, and nail changes, which are usually managed with conservative treatments.
The document from 2016 reviews the cutaneous side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, including toxic erythema of chemotherapy (TEC), chemotherapy-induced papulopustular eruptions, alopecia, hypertrichosis, nail changes, dyspigmentation, photosensitivity, and radiotherapy-associated recall reactions. TEC is characterized by erythematous patches and usually resolves spontaneously, while papulopustular eruptions are acne-like and may indicate a better tumor response to EGFR inhibitors. Chemotherapy-induced alopecia affects up to 90% of scalp hair, with scalp cooling methods offering a success rate above 50% for prevention. Nail changes, hyperpigmentation, and photosensitivity are managed conservatively, with the latter including sun avoidance and topical treatments. Radiotherapy-associated recall reactions, observed in 8.8% of patients in a study of 91, are managed by discontinuing the triggering drug and may require systemic or topical steroids. Chronic skin side effects of radiotherapy include ulcers, vascular neoplasms, morphoea, panniculitis, and vitiligo, with management strategies varying based on the condition. The document does not provide specific numbers of people in the studies for most conditions, as it is more of a general review.
