Radiodermatitis refers to the internal reaction of the intervertebral skeletal system to frequent ionizing radiation exposure, which may be caused by external sources such as x-rays or gamma rays, or internal sources such as infection with bacteria, fungi, or viruses. It usually affects the forearm or the affected wrist. Common effects can range from redness, swelling, impaired sensation, pain, and limitation of normal activity. This condition is considered chronic when symptoms persist for more than three months and the cause is not clearly defined.
It can result from accidental exposure to radiation or infection with bacteria or fungi. The infection that is caused by infections has been called 'radiogenic arthritis' since it involves an inflammation of the bone that supports the joints. Radiodermatitis that is caused by the internal response of the intervertebral system to repeated ionizing radiation can be referred to as chronic radiodermatitis. The term 'radiogenic arthritis' can be used synonymously with 'chronic rheumatic arthritis' (CRASH), 'pneumonitis' or 'pericarditis' and may be due to the use of toxic agents such as alcohol, cocaine, or other pharmaceuticals, exposure to chemicals such as solvents, gases, and pesticides, or infection with organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococci and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
It can be broadly divided into two types, either local or systemic, and these depend upon the kind of radiation involved, the duration of exposure, the area affected, etc. Local radiodermatitis manifests itself only in one area of the body, whereas systemic one can affect several organs at the same time and thus spread from one organ to another. Some of the most common symptoms associated with this condition include redness, warmth, itching, swelling, pain, and tenderness of the affected site, and thickening of the skin. Other symptoms related to acute radiation poisoning include bone pain, facial bone pain, fever, nausea, headache, abdominal distress, and swelling of the face and extremities.