People can have varying responses to the different forms of cancer treatment. A rash is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment. It may show up on your face, neck, scalp, upper back, and chest. Although a rash can appear at any point during treatment administration, it is most common within the first two to three weeks. Cancer treatments that can lead to a rash include:
The appearance of a rash can also be a sign that a person is having an allergic reaction to a specific medication. If you find yourself developing a chemo rash, your doctor may want to take a skin biopsy to make a diagnosis. Skin rashes from cancer treatment can come in several different forms.
Papulopustular Eruption
A papulopustular eruption typically occurs on a person’s face, chest, or upper back, though it can also appear on the abdomen, arms, legs, and buttocks. It is a common side effect among those whose cancer treatment includes an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor medication.
The rash typically looks like a group of small pimples and pus-filled blisters. People with this form of rash may also experience pain and itchiness from the condition.
Radiation Dermatitis
Radiation dermatitis is often a side effect of receiving radiation treatment. The x-rays used during the treatment can cause injury to the skin. Radiation dermatitis typically occurs in the areas through which the x-rays passed.
There may also be inflammation in both the inner and outer layers of the skin. The severity of the rash depends on the total radiation dose given to a patient and the length of the radiation treatment.
Radiation dermatitis usually appears within 90 days of receiving radiation therapy. It can have a variety of appearances, including:
- Reddened skin
- Peeling skin
- Dying skin cells
- Ulcers on the skin
Your physician may recommend the following practices before receiving radiation treatment to reduce your risk of developing dermatitis:
- Wash your skin very gently with warm water to remove any bacteria and avoid irritation
- Use a gentle cleanser with a low-pH for cleansing
- Avoid scrubbing at any lines on your skin
- Stop shaving so you don’t irritate your skin
- Put a moisturizer on your skin, except for any open wounds
Radiation Recall Dermatitis
Radiation recall is an acute inflammatory form of dermatitis that can appear after administering chemotherapy agents to a patient after radiation therapy. It is one of the more unique forms of dermatitis, and there is still much not known about specific combinations that trigger the condition.
When radiation recall dermatitis appears on the skin, it may have the appearance of a severe sunburn. You might also experience pain, blistering, peeling, redness, and swelling. Radiation recall typically affects areas in the body where a patient received radiation.
Hand-Foot Syndrome
Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy can develop the chemo rash hand-foot syndrome. It’s a common side effect of certain types of chemotherapy and causes redness and skin changes of the hands and feet. Symptoms in those areas can include:
- Numbness
- Redness
- Tenderness
- Rash
- Swelling
- Irritation
- Discomfort
Remedies and Treatments for Cancer Treatment Rash
A physician can work out the best course of treatment for a cancer treatment-related rash. Remedies will vary based on the type of rash a patient experiences. Your cancer treatment provider may recommend you use certain mild soaps, moisturizers, and lotions to alleviate your symptoms.
Your doctors may also have ideas on prescription medications that can reduce the skin changes and discomfort of a cancer treatment-related rash.
Your doctor may also offer other suggestions about home remedies, including:
- Keeping the rash area clean and dry with warm water, light soap, and a soft washcloth
- Wearing soft, loose-fitting clothes to avoid irritating the skin
- Wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, or other protective clothing when out in the sun
- Using all prescribed medications for the rash
When to See a Doctor
You should see a doctor anytime you notice any skin irritation after receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment, especially if it lasts longer than two days. They should examine any skin that may be open or bleeding from scratching.
