OVERVIEWOne of the biggest reasons why cancer patients fear treatment is because of the side effects that come along with it. Of all the side effects associated with cancer treatment, cutaneous or skin-related reactions are the most common ones. To manage this problem efficiently, we have a dedicated, supportive division of oncodermatology at HCG. Our oncodermatology clinic extensively focuses on managing the adverse effects on skin, hair, and nails caused by cancer treatments.
This unit runs in parallel with other disciplines to ensure that the skin-related issues faced by cancer patients are diagnosed and managed efficiently for faster recovery and better treatment outcomes.
Treatment of Cancer-related Skin Problems
The most common skin problems experienced by cancer patients include dry and rough skin, itching and rashes, mouth sores, hair loss, pigmentation, and sensitivity to light. Burning and peeling of the skin, swelling and blisters in the hands and feet, painful fingertips, and fragile nails can also occur.
For mild to moderate conditions:
Appropriate home care measures, topical or oral antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, phototherapy, and skin protective agents are advised.
For severe conditions:
Extensive skin involvement requiring hospitalisation, although uncommon, is managed by IV medications, close supervision, and specialised wound care.
Advantages
The following are some of the reasons why patients should consider visiting an oncodermatologist during their cancer treatment:
Better Compliance with Cancer Treatment
For many patients, adverse effects while on treatment make it harder for them to receive further treatment. Our specialists carefully manage these cases, address their concerns, and help them adhere to the treatment plan given by their treating doctors.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Treatment
The oncodermatology team at HCG works with the patient’s treating doctor’s team to manage the skin conditions holistically and help them complete their cancer treatment successfully.
Better Quality of Life During and After Treatment
Skin involvement during and after cancer therapy, be it mild or severe, can suppress the quality of life of patients. Our speciality clinic helps patients overcome treatment side effects and have a better quality of life during and after the treatment.
Oncodermatology Services at HCG
The skin conditions experienced during and after cancer treatment vary from patient to patient. Our oncodermatologists at HCG can help in the management of the following skin conditions:
- Chemotherapy-associated allergies and toxicities in the skin, hair, and nails
- Radiotherapy-associated reactions
- Skin infections that arise due to cancer-induced and therapy-induced immunosuppression
- Paraneoplastic skin changes caused by cancer
- Bone marrow transplantation-associated graft-versus-host disease in the skin
In addition to these supportive services, HCG’s Oncodermatology Clinic offers screening services for cancerous and precancerous skin conditions.
