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Identify cutaneous manifestations resulting from radiation therapy.
Discuss treatment options for irradiated skin.
Examine clinical case studies using an absorbent soft silicone dressing with silver† (MAg) for treatment of moist desquamation.
PROBLEM: Cutaneous manifestations can occur in up to 90% of individuals receiving radiation therapy. While reactions are typically observed in the first four weeks of treatment, in some instances they may not become acute until after treatment is completed. Radiation sequela can result in pain, pruritis, and skin breakdown. Acute skin reactions may lead to reduced quality of life, inability to complete ADL’s and may result in secondary infection. In some instances, treatment breaks are required or patients may elect to discontinue treatment. Particularly challenging is the treatment of moist/confluent moist desquamation.
METHODS: Three case studies demonstrate the use of MAg for the treatment of moist radiation desquamation.
RESULTS: All patients showed complete healing in 4-7 days. MAg effectively separates skin folds and minimizes friction and shearing to delicate tissues. The ionic silver provides an antimicrobial effect while the absorbent soft silicone manages exudate and maintains a moist wound healing environment that is conducive to autolytic debridement. Patients verbalized improved comfort, full range of motion, reduction in pruritis, better quality of sleep, ability to complete ADL's and a marked decrease in pain.
IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Nurses can have a profound impact on the care, comfort and quality of life of the oncology patient. Integrating the use of MAg into the treatment of moist desquamation can increase patient satisfaction and improve wound healing. The use of MAg as an effective dressing for the treatment of moist desquamation, as a standard of care, bears further study
†Mepilex Ag, Molnlycke Health Care AB