[Laser and light therapy for treatment of radiation dermatitis]

Radiation dermatitis (RD), an inflammatory skin disease that can be an unwanted side effect of medical radiation therapy (RT), most commonly occurs in patients undergoing cancer of the ENT, anal, and vulvar regions. The side effects on the skin and mucous membranes occur within a few weeks after the initiation of RT; however, late side effects can develop months to years after the RT. Therapeutically, various treatment approaches are considered such as pentoxifylline, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, laser therapy, and PBMT. In order to limit the reduced quality of life of patients with RT-induced fibrosis, supportive care consisting of pain therapy, psychological support, and wound care is necessary.