L58.1: Chronic radiodermatitis
Harmful radiation can include x-rays or radioactive radiation. X-rays are used in medicine, for example, to produce images of the bones in the body. However, you don’t need a lot of x-rays to do this. A lot of x-rays or radioactive radiation is used in medicine to treat malignant diseases, for example. Radioactive radiation is also found in nature and is also generated artificially in nuclear power plants.
This kind of harmful radiation damages the cells inside the skin.
Skin damage caused by harmful radiation can last for months or years. The damage may also only be visible a long time after exposure from the radiation.
The affected areas of the skin may be permanently red. The skin may be thinner than usual in the affected areas. Muscles or fat under the skin can also break down in these areas. The skin can also be dry there and also lighter or darker than usual. The blood vessels under the affected areas of the skin can be dilated. Then you can see the blood vessels as red points or lines through the skin. Deep wounds in the skin may also develop. Hair may have fallen out and no longer grow back.
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If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.