title: When the Patient Seeks Cure: Challenging Chemotherapy and Radiation Side Effects Requiring Creative Solutions.
abstract: When undergoing concomitant chemotherapy and radiation therapy for anal cancer, patients often experience significant side effects, including grade 1 or 2 radiation dermatitis, pain, exudate, and diarrhea. This case study presents a grade 3 reaction complicated by complex medical conditions. In addition to an evidence-based skin care treatment and side effect management plan that support patients during this intense period, this article offers creative strategies to provide a cost-effective healing option.
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital.
authors.forename: Aurelie C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Cormier
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital.
authors.forename: Lorraine
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Drapek
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital.
authors.forename: Jean
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Fahey
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital.
authors.forename: Brenna
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Rowen
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital.
authors.forename: Betty
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Burns-Britton
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital.
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lavadinho-Lemos
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital.
authors.forename: Todd
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Hultman
mesh_terms: D001005:Anus Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D059248:Chemoradiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D059408:Pain Management / Q000379:methods; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D011855:Radiodermatitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D017592:Skin Care / Q000451:nursing; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000502:physiology
keywords: concomitant chemoradiotherapy; pain; radiation dermatitis; rectal cancer