Morphea as a consequence of accelerated partial breast irradiation

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Radiation Oncology
• Oncology

Background:

• Morphea is a localized scleroderma variant, distinct from systemic scleroderma.
• Radiation-induced morphea (RIM) is an uncommon complication of radiation therapy.
• Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is a targeted radiation technique for breast cancer.

Observation:

• A 65-year-old woman developed morphea at the irradiation site 1.5 years post-APBI.
• Symptoms included tenderness, erythema, and induration.
• Skin biopsy confirmed morphea.

Findings:

• This is the first reported case of RIM exclusively within the APBI treatment field.
• The patient received 34 Gy in 5 days via intracavitary brachytherapy for invasive ductal carcinoma.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for localized morphea after APBI.
• Suggests careful monitoring for cutaneous side effects post-APBI.
• Contributes to understanding rare radiation-induced dermatological conditions.