Updates on Rash and Radiation

 My Rash

 As with all my posts, I hope to help others who either have to navigate or help someone navigate this world. I had previously written about a rash I was experiencing after my KADCYLA infusions. I was able to get in with a dermatology specialist from the University of Miami who comes up to cover at a local clinic. He determined it was a rare but confirmed Grade 1 drug reaction. A Grade 1 reaction does not require stopping the treatment as the treatment is deemed more beneficial than the reaction in a risk vs. benefit assessment.

 

 My rash type is considered acneiform. From cancer.gov, an acneiform rash is "a skin condition that causes small, raised, acne-like bumps to form, usually on the face, scalp, chest, and upper back. The bumps on the affected skin are usually red and filled with pus and may crust over. They may also become painful, tender, and itchy. Sometimes, the affected skin becomes infected. Acneiform rash may be caused by an infection or by treatment with certain drugs, including some anticancer drugs, such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. Also called acneiform dermatitis and acneiform eruption."

 

 In my situation, the rash is on both arms, both sides of my trunk, on my buttocks and inner thighs. Because it was not on my face, scalp, chest and upper back (which I am thankful for), it did not present as a normal EGFR inhibitor rash. This was part of the reason for my delayed diagnosis, as it did not present in the "typical manner". 

 

 The solution in my case, is either topical based products to just put a "band aid" on it, or dexamethasone or prednisone, to prevent it from advancing once it appears. So far, it has put a pause on my rash that has appeared like clockwork.

 I share this so you speak up if you're seeing any changes with your skin or feeling anything that doesn't feel right. While we have to endure many things as we get our treatments, we don't have to assume it's all part of the normal process and can be self advocates to ensure we're getting the right treatment for what we are experiencing!

 

My Radiation

 I only have 4 more radiation doses to go! My last treatment is on Monday, September 30th. The fatigue I've felt can continue for 2-4 weeks (or longer) so I plan to continue to work part time until I recover from this unrelenting fatigue. I'm fortunate that I have been doing well in the skin department, with mostly just redness. No blisters, yet, as it can continue to progress after treatments are done. I'm currently in the Grade 1-2 range.

 Wish me luck in my radiation recovery and help me celebrate overcoming this next milestone in my treatment!