Revista Gaúcha de Enfermagem (Feb 2024)

Factors associated with the quality of life of women undergoing radiotherapy

  • Fabiane Diniz Machado Vilhena,
  • Odenilce Vieira Pereira,
  • Fabianne de Jesus Dias de Sousa,
  • Nandara Celana Negreiros Martins,
  • Gisela Pereira Xavier Albuquerque,
  • Renata Glaucia Barros da Silva Lopes,
  • Taís dos Passos Sagica,
  • Aline Maria Pereira Cruz Ramos

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1590/1983-1447.2024.20230062.en
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 45

Abstract

Read online Read online

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the skin characteristics and quality of life of patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy. Method: Cross-sectional study conducted with 60 women. The classification scales of skin changes resulting from exposure to ionizing radiation (RTOG) and the validated versions in Portuguese of those that classified skin types (Fitzpatrick), symptoms (RISRAS) and quality of life (DLQI) were applied. in the period between December 2021 and October 2022. For data analysis, Fisher’s Exact Test, Chi-Square and Asymptotic General Independence Test were used. Results: 100% of patients had skin irritation. As the treatment progressed and the radiodermatitis appeared or worsened, there was a tendency for the intensity of signs and symptoms to increase, such as: sensitivity, discomfort or pain, itching, burning and heat, dry and wet desquamation, which may have impacted the quality of life and reflected in other aspects, such as: shopping activities or outings (p=0.0020), social activities or leisure activities (p=0.0420). Conclusion: Radiodermatitis is a common condition that affects women with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy, skin characteristics and quality of life of patients affected during this treatment.

Keywords