Effect of Heparinoid Moisturizer on Quality of Life in Patients with Acute Radiation Skin Damage Following Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy After Breast-Conserving Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Study

Cosmetic considerations after breast cancer treatment

Treatments for breast cancer can have an array of adverse effects, including hair loss, scarring, and irritated skin. These physical outcomes can, in turn, lead to body image concerns, anxiety, and depression. Fortunately, there is growing evidence that certain cosmetic therapies can improve patient self-image. Here we review various cosmetic treatment options including hair camouflage, eyebrow and eyelash camouflage, treatments for hirsutism, nipple and areola tattooing, post-mastectomy scar tattooing, treatments for dry skin/xerosis, removal of post-radiation telangiectasias, and lightening of post-radiation hyperpigmentation. For each patient concern, we report potential procedures, clinical evidence of impact on quality of life, special considerations, and safety concerns. This article aims to equip dermatologists with resources so that they may effectively counsel breast cancer survivors who express treatment-related cosmetic concerns.

Green cocoon-derived sericin reduces cellular damage caused by radiation in human keratinocytes

Radiation therapy used in the treatment of cancer causes skin damage, and no method of care has been established thus far. Recently, it has become clear that sericin derived from silkworm cocoons has moisturizing and antioxidant functions. In addition, green cocoon-derived sericin, which is rich in flavonoids, may have enhanced functions. However, whether this green cocoon-derived sericin can reduce radiotherapy-induced skin damage is unclear. In the present study, we aimed at establishing care methods to reduce skin cell damage caused by X-irradiation using green cocoon-derived sericin. We investigated its effect on human keratinocytes using lactate dehydrogenase activity to indicate damage reduction. Our results showed that green cocoon-derived sericin reduced cell damage caused by X-irradiation. However, this effect was not observed when cells were treated before X-irradiation or with a sericin derived from white cocoons. In addition, green cocoon-derived sericin decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation. Our results suggest that green cocoon sericin mitigates the damaging effect of X-irradiation on cells, hence presenting potential usefulness in reducing skin damage from radiation therapy and opening new avenues in the care of cancer patients.

MASCC clinical practice guidelines for the prevention and management of acute radiation dermatitis: part 1) systematic review

Acute radiation dermatitis (ARD) commonly develops in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy and is often characterized by erythema, desquamation, and pain. A systematic review was conducted to summarize the current evidence on interventions for the prevention and management of ARD. Databases were searched from 1946 to September 2020 to identify all original studies that evaluated an intervention for the prevention or management of ARD, with an updated search conducted in January 2023. A total of 235 original studies were included in this review, including 149 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Most interventions could not be recommended due to a low quality of evidence, lack of supporting evidence, or conflicting findings across multiple trials. Photobiomodulation therapy, Mepitel® film, mometasone furoate, betamethasone, olive oil, and oral enzyme mixtures showed promising results across multiple RCTs. Recommendations could not be made solely based on the published evidence due to limited high-quality evidence. As such, Delphi consensus recommendations will be reported in a separate publication.