Original article
Prophylaxis and management of acute radiation-induced skin toxicity: a survey of practice across Europe and the USA
A. O'Donovan BSc,
M. Coleman BSc,
R. Harris D Clin Res, MSc, PgD, PgCCE, DCR (T), Tech IOSH,
P. Herst PhD, MPhil MSc,
Corresponding Author
A. O'Donovan BSc
Assistant Professor
Applied Radiation Therapy Trinity (ARTT), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
Correspondence address: Anita O'Donovan, Discipline of Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland (e-mail: [email protected]).Search for more papers by this authorM. Coleman BSc
Radiation Therapist
Applied Radiation Therapy Trinity (ARTT), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
Search for more papers by this authorR. Harris D Clin Res, MSc, PgD, PgCCE, DCR (T), Tech IOSH
Professional Officer for Research
The Society and College of Radiographers, London, UK
Search for more papers by this authorP. Herst PhD, MPhil MSc
Senior Lecturer
Department of Radiation Therapy, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
Search for more papers by this authorA. O'Donovan BSc,
M. Coleman BSc,
R. Harris D Clin Res, MSc, PgD, PgCCE, DCR (T), Tech IOSH,
P. Herst PhD, MPhil MSc,
Corresponding Author
A. O'Donovan BSc
Assistant Professor
Applied Radiation Therapy Trinity (ARTT), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
Correspondence address: Anita O'Donovan, Discipline of Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland (e-mail: [email protected]).Search for more papers by this authorM. Coleman BSc
Radiation Therapist
Applied Radiation Therapy Trinity (ARTT), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
Search for more papers by this authorR. Harris D Clin Res, MSc, PgD, PgCCE, DCR (T), Tech IOSH
Professional Officer for Research
The Society and College of Radiographers, London, UK
Search for more papers by this authorP. Herst PhD, MPhil MSc
Senior Lecturer
Department of Radiation Therapy, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
Search for more papers by this authorThe authors declare no conflict of interest.
Abstract
Radiation-induced toxicity is a common adverse side effect of radiation therapy. Previous studies have demonstrated a lack of evidence to support common skincare advice for radiotherapy patients. The aim of the current study was to investigate the management of radiation-induced skin toxicity across Europe and the USA. Where previous surveys have focused on national practice or treatment of specific sites, the current study aimed to gain a broader representation of skincare practice. An anonymous online survey investigating various aspects of radiotherapy skincare management was distributed to departments across Europe and the USA (n = 181/737 responded i.e. 25%). The UK was excluded as a similar survey was carried out in 2011. The results highlight the lack of consistency in both the prevention and management of radiation-induced skin toxicity. Recommended products are often not based on evidence-based practice. Examples include the continued use of aqueous cream and gentian violet, as well as the recommendations on washing restrictions during treatment. To our knowledge, this is the most extensive survey to date on the current management of radiation-induced skin toxicity. This study highlights significant disparities between clinical practice and research-based evidence published in recent systematic reviews and guidelines. Ongoing large prospective randomised trials are urgently needed.
Supporting Information
| Filename | Description |
|---|---|
| ecc12213-sup-0002-appendixs1.docx1.1 MB |
Appendix S1. Supplementary information. |
| ecc12213-sup-0001-tables1.docx16.8 KB |
Table S1. Additional skin care products used by departments. |
Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.
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