Prevention of radiation-induced moist desquamation in the tropics: A literature review of non-prescription skin care products

Abstract

Introduction: Many patients undergoing radiation treatment experience moist desquamation, a severe acute skin reaction. The pain, discomfort and dressing applications subsequent to moist desquamation exacerbate the distress associated with the patients' cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Background: Radiation oncology nurses in a tropical area of Australia believe that moist desquamation occurs more often in patients undergoing radiation treatment in the summer months. It is surmised that this increase is due to a combination of high humidity and the consistency of the preventative cream currently recommended by the clinical staff.

Method: A narrative literature review was undertaken to identify a potential alternative non-prescription topical product, readily available in Australia, to prevent moist desquamation in a tropical environment. Research literature published in a 10-year time frame ending December 2010 was retrieved and reviewed.

Main findings: Seven individual trials met our inclusion criteria. No non-prescription moisturising cream, lotion or gel that was trialled was significantly better than any other at preventing moist desquamation, and none were trialled in a tropical climate. The literature did indicate possible alternatives to the currently recommended preventative cream.

Conclusion: There is no evidence to support recommending the use of any specific non-prescription topical product to prevent radiation-induced acute skin reactions. This literature review has informed a randomised controlled trial of two non-prescription creams in a tropical setting. It is anticipated that the trial will provide evidence-based preventative skin care recommendations for patients receiving radiation treatment in a tropical climate.