Radiation skin reactions are a known side effect of radiation therapy. Moist desquamation reactions are not only painful but also may be a focus for infection and can be dose limiting. There is a challenge to find a dressing which is protective, comfortable, and a traumatic to delicate irradiated skin. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate patient comfort when using Mepilex Lite in the management of dry and moist desquamation. Secondary objectives included safety, tolerance, and influence on healing. Sixteen patients were recruited at 2 centers in the United Kingdom and in Sweden when they had a RTOG score of 3 and 1 symptom measured by the Radiation-Induced Skin Reaction Assessment tool. Digital photography was used at each weekly visit. Patients completed the Radiation-Induced Skin Reaction Assessment, daily diary cards, and open diaries for quantitative and qualitative evaluation. Some patients found that the dressing minimized pain during dressing changes and was easily lifted and adjusted without loss of adherent properties. A new dressing had a soothing or cooling effect on the skin, and some reported a more normal sleep pattern. The dressing had no negative effect on wound healing. The researchers conclude that the dressing provides a promising alternative to existing dressings and is worthy of further research.

Radiotherapy skin care is a contentious issue surrounded by myth, damaging and frightening stories and unfounded guidance. This is compounded by the fact that, when seeking information, patients, relatives and staff are faced with a barrage of conflicting, poorly researched data. Each of the five Scottish cancer centres worked together to produce guidance for all health professionals who are involved in the care of patients with radiotherapy skin reactions. As a result, a "Best Practice Statement" has been produced to give an overall view of radiotherapy skin reactions and their recommended care. This will guide best practice and dispel the many myths of care, which are still in existence, thus ensuring that equity of best practice care is available to all patients.

No abstract