Establishment and Characterization of a Radiation-Induced Dermatitis Rat Model

The study established a radiation-induced dermatitis rat model using doses of 40 Gy and 90 Gy to replicate human radiation dermatitis, showing significant skin damage such as erythema, desquamation, ulceration, and hair follicle loss. Histological analysis confirmed increased inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition, and fibrosis. The model demonstrated both acute and chronic skin reactions, with visible damage within 7 days and extensive hair loss by 12 weeks post-irradiation. The findings suggested that targeting apoptosis and autophagy could be potential therapeutic strategies for treating radiation-induced dermatitis. The study involved sample sizes ranging from 6 to 12 rats per group, providing a reliable platform for testing new therapeutic strategies.