EVALUATION OF SKIN SIDE EFFECTS OF RADIATION THERAPY IN ABDOMINAL AND PELVIC REGIONS: A CLINICAL ASSESSMENT

Authors : Rahşan Habiboğlu, Fevziye Ilknur Kayali, Irem Saricanbaz

Pages : 273-278

Doi:10.24938/kutfd.1310521

View : 23 | Download : 31

Publication Date : 2023-08-31

Article Type : Research Article

Abstract :Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the skin side effects of abdominal and pelvic radiation therapy. Radiation therapy is widely used in the treatment of various cancers, but it can cause significant skin changes as a side effect. These effects are classified into acute, subacute, or chronic stages depending on their timing and severity. Material and Methods: We examined 60 patients who underwent radiation therapy between 2016 and 2018 and obtained their information from treatment records. Sixteen patients received palliative radiation therapy, while 44 patients received curative radiation therapy. Pelvic radiation therapy was administered to 41 patients, and abdominal radiation therapy was performed on 19 patients. The end point of the study was assesing skin reactions.The grading of radiation dermatitis was evaluated by  using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group / European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer criteria. Results: 75% of the study population was male and 25% female. The ages of the patients ranged from 29 to 82, with a median age of 56. The grade 1 side effect rate among patients who experienced side effects was calculated as 82.75% (24 patients), while the grade 2 side effect rate was calculated as 17.24% (5 patients). These side effects were generally mild to moderate and did not significantly differ based on patient age or gender. However, patients receiving concurrent chemotherapy showed an increased frequency of skin side effects (p<0.001). Therefore, it is crucial to monitor and manage skin side effects associated with abdominal and pelvic radiation therapy. Conclusion: In conclusion, skin side effects in patients undergoing abdominal and pelvic radiation therapy are typically mild to moderate, regardless of age or gender. However, the frequency of these side effects is higher in patients receiving concurrent chemotherapy. This study highlights the importance of closely monitoring and developing effective management strategies for skin side effects in patients undergoing radiation therapy. Further comprehensive research is needed to improve the management of skin side effects related to abdominal and pelvic radiation therapy.
Keywords : Cilt yan etkileri, abdominal radyoterapi, pelvik radyoterapi, radyoterapi, radyodermit