Integumentary System : Cancer

Integumentary System
Alopecia Destruction of hair follicles by chemotherapy or radiation to scalp.

Hair loss usually is temporary with chemotherapy, but usually permanent in response to radiation.

Suggest ways to cope with hair loss (e.g., hair pieces, scarves, wigs).

Cut long hair before therapy.

Avoid excessive shampooing, brushing, and combing of hair.

Avoid use of electric hair dryers, curlers, and curling rods.

Discuss impact of hair loss on self-image.

Radiation skin changes (dry to moist desquamation) Radiation damages skin
Chemotherapy-Induced Skin Changes Hyperpigmentation.

Telangiectasia.

Photosensitivity.

Acneiform eruptions.

Acral erythema.

Alert patient to potential skin changes.

Encourage patient to avoid sun exposure.

Implement symptomatic management as needed depending on specific skin effect (e.g., application of lotions, benzoyl peroxide for acne, corticosteroid creams

Share:

More Posts

Back Pain

Overview, Symptoms, & Causes Diagnosis, Treatment, & Steps To Take Research & Resources Overview of Back Pain Back pain is one of the most common

E-Cigarettes (Vapes)

AT A GLANCE Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are sometimes called e-cigs, vapes, vape pens, and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). E-cigarettes come in many shapes and

Fibromyalgia

Print KEY POINTS Fibromyalgia causes pain, fatigue, emotional and mental distress, and sleep problems. There is no cure, but you can manage it with self-care,