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Patients undergoing radiation or laser therapy receive information related to skin reactions and recommended management from radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, pharmacists and dermatologists.

This team of professionals uses a wide variety of approaches to manage skin reactions associated with radiation and laser treatments. Moisturizing creams and lotions are used widely for nurturing, hydrating and restoring skin integrity.

Dermatologist

What is a Dermatologist?

Dermatologists manage the symptoms and cures for skin, nail, scalp and hair diseases and/or cosmetic procedures. This medical specialty requires a minimum of three additional years of training following a medical degree and post graduate internship. Beyond the general dermatological practice that addresses general skin issues, a dermatologist may acquire expertise in pediatrics, surgery or cosmetics to specialize in one of these fields.

Why go to a Dermatologist?

For the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal skin issues that may be on the verge of or may already be cancerous, a trip to the dermatologist might be in order. It not only allays fear, but offers possible treatment options; it also establishes a skin history. This history is of vital importance for any future assessment of skin health as we age.

In addition, a dermatologist should be consulted for the diagnosis and management of irritated skin and infectious diseases of the skin. Dermatologists can also treat patients cosmetically for hair loss, scars and changes in the skin with Botox. They can insert collagen and other injectable fillers and/or remove tattoos, perform eyelid surgery, reduce veins through scelerotherapy and even perform liposuction. Dermatologists have a broad range of new tools and attendant techniques such as lasers (to reverse signs of aging), and many other in-office procedures that require minimal downtime and rapid recovery.

Below is a link to the online directory offered by American Academy of Dermatology. It will help you locate dermatologists in your area.

Radiation Oncologist

What is a Radiation Oncologist?

Radiation oncologists are the doctors who oversee the care of each cancer patient undergoing radiation treatment. They develop and prescribe each cancer patient's treatment plan. They make sure that every treatment is accurately given. They monitor the patient's progress and adjust treatment to make sure patients get quality care throughout treatment. Radiation oncologists also help identify and treat any side effects of radiation therapy. They work closely with other physicians and all members of the radiation oncology team. Radiation oncologists have completed four years of college, four years of medical school, one year of general medical training and finally four years of residency (specialty) training in radiation oncology. They have extensive training in the safe use of radiation to treat disease. If they pass a special examination, they are certified by the American Board of Radiology (www.theabr.org). Patients should ask if their doctor is board certified. Source: www.radiologyinfo.org

Radiation Oncology Nurses

What is a Radiation Oncology Nurse?

Nurses work with the radiation team to care for patients during the course of treatment. They help evaluate the patient before treatment begins. They may talk to the patient about potential side effects and their management. During the course of radiation treatments patients may be evaluated weekly, or more frequently by the nurse to assess problems and concerns. Nurses play a key role in educating the patient about treatment, side effects, etc. Radiation oncology nurses are registered nurses licensed to practice professional nursing. Most nurses in radiation therapy have additional accreditation in the specialty of oncology nursing (www.ons.org). Advanced practice nurses in oncology, which include clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners, have completed a master's degree program. Source: www.radiologyinfo.org

Radiation Therapist

What is a Radiation Therapist?

Radiation therapists work with radiation oncologists. They administer the daily radiation treatment under the doctor's prescription and supervision. They maintain daily records and regularly check the treatment machines to make sure they are working properly. Radiation therapists go through a two-to-four year educational program following high school or college. They take a special examination and must be certified by the The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (www.arrt.org). In addition, many states require that radiation therapists be licensed. Source: www.radiologyinfo.org

Pharmacist

What is a Pharmacist?

Pharmacists are health professionals who practice the science of pharmacy. In their traditional role, pharmacists typically take a request for medicines from a prescribing health care provider in the form of a medical prescription and dispense the medication to the patient and counsel them on the proper use and adverse effects of that medication. In this role, pharmacists ensure the safe and effective use of medications. Pharmacists also participate in disease-state management, where they optimize and monitor drug therapy or interpret medical laboratory results – in collaboration with physicians and/or other health professionals. Source: www.pharmacist.com