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Thermoplastic Mask-Induced Contact Dermatitis: A Case Report
Louis Cappelli1, Spencer Poiset1, Benjamin Greenberger2
1Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA.
Cureus
|May 9, 2022
Summary
Thermoplastic masks used in radiation therapy rarely cause allergic contact dermatitis. This case highlights a patient who developed a persistent skin reaction to the mask, emphasizing the need for further documentation and understanding of such adverse events.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Thermoplastic masks are standard for head and neck immobilization during radiation therapy.
- These masks are typically made from non-toxic polyester compounds, with minimal reported instances of causing allergic contact dermatitis.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old female with squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil developed allergic contact dermatitis after mask fitting for adjuvant radiation therapy.
- The dermatitis affected areas covered by the mask, worsened with continued use, and did not respond to topical treatments.
Findings:
- This case represents one of the few documented instances of allergic contact dermatitis caused by thermoplastic masks.
- The patient's skin reaction persisted for three months after radiation therapy completion and mask removal.
Implications:
- Allergic reactions to thermoplastic masks are rare but can impact radiation therapy by disrupting treatment or exacerbating radiation dermatitis.
- Further documentation of these reactions is crucial for understanding causes, risk factors, and potential management strategies.
