Blisters—an unusual effect during radiotherapy

• DOI: 10.1007/s00066-013-0444-9
• Publication Date: 2013-10-24T14:34:58Z
• Authors: U. Höller; T. Schubert; V. Budach; U. Trefzer; M. Beyer
• Keywords: Discontinuation; Blisters; Pemphigus vulgaris

The skin reaction to radiation is regularly monitored in order to detect enhanced radiosensitivity of the patient, unexpected interactions (e.g. with drugs) or any inadvertent overdosage. It is important to distinguish secondary disease from radiation reaction to provide adequate treatment and to avoid unnecessary discontinuation of radiotherapy. A case of bullous eruption or blisters during radiotherapy of the breast is presented. Differential diagnoses bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus vulgaris, and bullous impetigo are discussed and treatment described.