Radiodermatitis and Fibrosis in the Context of Breast Radiation Therapy: A Critical Review

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Skin toxicity is the main complication during irradiation in the management of early-stage breast cancer. In some cases, it may cause treatment to stop. These toxicities may be acute (mainly radiodermatitis) and/or late (mainly fibrosis). Their understandings, their mechanisms of occurrence, as well as their management is indispensable in order to improve the management of these patients. Through this study we propose to provide a clear picture of these toxicities in relation to the modalities of radiotherapy, advances in their quantification, and management to help practitioners improve their knowledge and clinical practices on this topic. ABSTRACT: Background: Radiation therapy has been progressively improved in order to maintain a satisfactory tumour response, while reducing toxicity. We will review the incidence of radiodermatitis and fibrosis according to the various radiation and fractionation techniques. We will then focus on the various methods used to manage, prevent, and quantify this toxicity. Method: More than 1753 articles were identified using the various search terms. We selected 53 articles to answer the questions addressed in this study according to criteria set in advance. Result: The literature reports lower acute toxicity with IMRT compared to 3DCRT, but no significant differences in terms of late toxicities. Partial breast irradiation appears to be less effective in terms of local control with a higher rate of late toxicity. Intra operative radiation therapy appears to provide good results in terms of both local control and late toxicity. The hypofractionation has equivalent efficacy and safety to the normofractionated regimen, but with lower rates of radiodermatitis and fibrosis. The adddition of a boost, particularly a sequential boost, increases the risk of fibrosis and radiodermatitis during treatment. Conclusion: The development of IMRT has significantly reduced acute toxicity and has improved tolerability during treatment. Modified fractionation has reduced treatment time, as well as adverse effects.