Radiation Treatment for Dermatologic Disease

In a comprehensive session led by Beth McClellan, Chief of Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein, experts discussed the role of radiation treatment in managing dermatologic diseases, particularly skin cancers and hypertrophic scars. Dr. KR Mehta, a specialist in radiation oncology, highlighted the fundamental principles of radiation, focusing on its electromagnetic spectrum and effects at the atomic level, especially DNA damage. The session covered the evolution of radiation treatments, including the transition from orthovoltage to megavoltage techniques, emphasizing the efficacy of radiation as an adjuvant therapy to surgery for skin cancers, particularly in cases of perineural invasion and positive lymph nodes. Attendees learned about the benefits of radiation not only for malignancies but also for benign conditions like hypertrophic scars. Various radiation modalities were explained, including brachytherapy, superficial X-ray treatments, and the use of different delivery techniques. The discussion also touched on dose management strategies, the balance between tumor control and normal tissue preservation, and the potential side effects of radiation therapy, such as dermatitis. Overall, the session aimed to enhance understanding of radiation's clinical applications and safety considerations for dermatologic treatments.