Dermatological impacts of urological cancer treatments

Abstract

Urological cancers-including prostate, bladder, renal, and testicular cancers-are commonly treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. While these therapies improve survival outcomes, they often induce significant dermatological side effects that impair patients' quality of life and treatment adherence. This review synthesizes current literature on the prevalence, mechanisms, and psychosocial consequences of dermatological toxicities associated with urological cancer treatments. Common adverse effects include dermatitis, alopecia, photosensitivity, hyperpigmentation, and scarring, with severity varying by treatment modality. Chemotherapy frequently causes alopecia and hand-foot syndrome, while radiation therapy leads to dermatitis and long-term fibrosis. Immunotherapy, though revolutionary, is associated with pruritus, vitiligo, and severe cutaneous reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. The psychosocial burden of these dermatological effects-particularly impacts on body image and self-esteem-is substantial yet understudied. Multidisciplinary management strategies, including early dermatological intervention, patient education, and psychosocial support, are essential to mitigate these effects. Future research should focus on standardized protocols, personalized treatment approaches, and improved patient-reported outcome measures to optimize holistic cancer care.

Keywords: Chemotherapy; Dermatological toxicity; Immunotherapy; Psychosocial impact; Radiation therapy; Urological cancer.