Radiotherapy-Induced Skin Fibrosis: Pathophysiology, Emerging Therapeutics, and the Role of Dermatology

February 2026 in “ American Journal of Clinical Dermatology ”

Olivia M. Burke, Sophie M. Bilik, Caroline Dodson, Jordan A.K. Johnson, Lina Ferrari, Karina Imisheva, Hannah Pachalis, Victoria Rose Frerichs, Angela Jeffrey, Andrew P. Sawaya, S. Samuels, R. Stone

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technique to create small wounds in skin to activate collagen production and hair growth

Studysummary This source discusses how radiotherapy-induced skin fibrosis, a chronic side effect affecting cancer survivors' quality of life, is driven by ongoing inflammation and fibroblast activity, and emphasizes the need for comprehensive dermatologic management and better diagnostic tools.

Automatically generated from the study's abstract, not written by a person, and not a review of the full paper. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Read the original study, and consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

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research Microneedle Radiofrequency Induces Extracellular Matrix Remodeling Through Fibroblast Activation: A Histological Study in a Porcine Model

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research Radiation Dermatitis: Radiation-Induced Effects on the Structural and Immunological Barrier Function of the Epidermis

1 citations , March 2024 in “International journal of molecular sciences”

This review discusses how ionizing radiation causes skin damage by inducing cellular senescence in keratinocytes, which secrete inflammatory mediators, recruiting immune cells and exacerbating inflammation, impacting the skin barrier function and healing.

research Clinical Pathobiology of Radiotherapy-Induced Alopecia: A Guide Toward More Effective Prevention and Hair Follicle Repair

3 citations , June 2023 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology”

This article discusses the clinical spectrum and pathobiology of radiotherapy-induced alopecia and reports no new research findings, highlighting potential pathways for future targeted RIA management.

research Single-Cell Transcriptomics Reveals a Senescence-Associated IL-6/CCR6 Axis Driving Radiodermatitis

9 citations , July 2022 in “EMBO molecular medicine”

This study found that targeting IL-6, IL-1, and CCR6 signaling pathways may effectively reduce irradiation-induced alopecia and dermatitis in radiotherapy patients.

research Radiofrequency Microneedling: A Comprehensive and Critical Review

28 citations , February 2021 in “Dermatologic Surgery”

This review found radiofrequency microneedling effective and safe for various dermatologic conditions, including skin rejuvenation and acne scars, especially in individuals with darker skin types, with progressive improvements for up to six months after treatment.

research Mobilizing Transit-Amplifying Cell-Derived Ectopic Progenitors Prevents Hair Loss from Chemotherapy or Radiation Therapy

38 citations , September 2017 in “Cancer Research”

This study reports that hair follicles can mobilize ectopic progenitors for regeneration to repair damage from ionizing radiation. Augmenting WNT signaling enhanced this regenerative process and prevented radiation- and chemotherapy-induced hair loss, highlighting a potential approach to manage alopecia during cancer treatment.

research A Simple Assay for the Study of Human Hair Follicle Damage Induced by Ionizing Irradiation

16 citations , November 2009 in “Experimental dermatology”

This study found that ionizing irradiation significantly inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in human hair follicle keratinocytes, suggesting its potential as a preclinical assay system for testing radioprotectants.

research Permanent Alopecia After Cranial Irradiation: Dose–Response Relationship

120 citations , October 2004 in “International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics”

In this study, the researchers established a dose–response relationship between the hair follicle dose during cranial irradiation and the development of permanent alopecia, with other factors showing limited correlation.