Management of cutaneous symptoms.
OBJECTIVE
To provide a review of the problems of malignant skin lesions, skin changes associated with cancer therapy, and required nursing care.


METHODS
Published articles and book chapters that pertain to skin, malignant skin lesions, cutaneous toxicity from cancer therapy, pressure ulcers, and nursing care.


CONCLUSIONS
Cutaneous symptoms as a result of the disease process or its treatment (chemotherapy, cytokines, radiation) interfere with optimal functioning and quality of life. The management and nursing care of malignant skin lesions, hyperpigmentation, changes in sensation, hypersensitivity reactions, acral erythema, erythema, desquamation, and pressure ulcers provide major treatment challenges for the oncology nurse.


CONCLUSIONS
Skilled assessment, prevention, intervention, and evaluation of skin problems can reduce the difficulties patients and family members encounter with cutaneous symptoms and promote self-care and optimal functioning.
Gallagher
J
J
Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, USA.
D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009859:Oncology Nursing; D012648:Self Care; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing*