A Clinico-Epidemiological Study of Cutaneous Manifestations in Patients on Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy at a Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Background: The newer and traditional targeted anticancer modalities have tremendously improved the survival rate in cancer patients, however the associated increase in the incidence of cutaneous side effects can negatively affect the quality of life. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of cutaneous manifestations in patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy for the treatment of internal malignancies.

Material and Methods: This cross sectional observational study included all diagnosed cases of internal malignancies with cutaneous manifestations following chemotherapy and radiotherapy, referred from the oncology OPD between January 2020 to June 2021. In each patient, detailed history, cutaneous and systemic examination, as well as treatment information were recorded. Skin biopsies were performed when necessary. Patients who had undergone both chemotherapy and radiotherapy were excluded from the study.

Results: Out of 3741 patients who were referred from the oncology OPD, 80% (2992) were on chemotherapy, with 8.51% (255) experiencing cutaneous manifestations. Among the 45% (1689) patients  who were on radiotherapy, 3.73% (63) developed cutaneous manifestation.

Conclusion: Early detection and management of the cutaneous manifestation following treatment with chemotherapeutic and radiotherapeutic agents can be of utmost importance in improving the quality of life, increasing the therapeutic compliance and preventing the long term sequelae.