Press
Enter
to Search
Hi doctor,
21 years ago, my friend had radiation therapy for a very small breast cancer. In the recent years, breast areola becomes dry. Biopsies revealed no cancer. She was followed closely by an oncologist and a dermatologist with number of tests. Recently, a mole appeared in the areola region. The dermatologist decided to take a biopsy after three months and the result is inconclusive. Her doctor said that it could be nothing or it could be some cancer named squamous skin cancer. She is afraid of melanoma, but the doctor said melanoma is extremely unlikely. She is very nervous and scared. I could not send pictures because my friend does not want to. What do you think? Please advice.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Post radiation therapy, the skin does suffer a burnt both immediate as well as on a long term.
Dryness, itching leading to oozing and crusting are very common complaints after radiotherapy and can start as late as 15 to 20 years too after the treatment.
Radiation therapy does not increase the risk of melanoma. There are chances for basal cell carcinoma, which is much easier to treat and not life threatening.
Squamous cell cancer also can occur, however, simple eczema needs to be ruled out even before thinking of the same.
A negative biopsy is quite sensitive if chosen from the appropriate site.
I would advise not to panic for the fear of a melanoma and instead keep up with close follow up to note the course of the problem.
1. Nipple eczema, post radiation.
2. Paget's disease (bone remodeling disorder).
3. Simple fungal infection.
For further information consult a dermatologist online.---> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/dermatologist
Was this answer helpful?
|This is a sponsored Ad. icliniq or icliniq doctors do not endorse the content in the Ad.
Comprehensive Medical Second Opinion.Submit your Case
How can I cure dry skin around my lips that is peeling off?
Query: Hello doctor, My skin around the lip is always dry and peeling off. I tried applying all natural moisturizers like ghee, olive oil, etc. My doctor has asked me to take Neurobion for vitamin deficiency. Still, no improvement related to dryness. Kindly suggest a remedy for this. Read Full »
I developed itchy and dry skin after dyeing hair in salon. Can you have a look?
Query: Hello doctor, I have a question about my skin condition. I have developed a really itchy and dry skin after I dyed my hair. Here are the symptoms. I do not know what the condition is as my appointment is months away. Can I attach pictures? Read Full »
Can chemotherapy result in new wounds?
Query: Hi doctor, My father had a surgery for cancer and subsequent chemoradiation on cheeks. After that he developed a wound on right cheek, which developed into a big hollow wound. Please help us. Read Full »
Ask your health query to a doctor online?
Ask a Dermatologist Now
Consult by Phone
Video Chat