Radiodermatitis, also known as x-ray dermatitis, radiation dermatitis, radiation-induced skin reactions, or radiation injury, is a side effect of external beam ionizing radiation. Radiotherapy, used in the treatment of cancer or other diseases, is a major cause of radiodermatitis. The condition can also be a result of nuclear attacks and disasters.

The global radiodermatitis market is estimated to account for US$ 360.5 Mn in terms of value and is expected to reach US$ 472.8 Mn by the end of 2027.

Global Radiodermatitis Market: Drivers

Increasing prevalence of cancer is expected to propel growth of the global radiodermatitis market over the forecast period. For instance, according to the American Cancer Society, in 2019, there will be an estimated 1,762,450 new cancer cases diagnosed and 606,880 cancer deaths in the U.S.

Moreover, R&D of new therapies for the treatment of radiodermatitis is also expected to aid in growth of the market. For instance, in December 2019, Kannalife, Inc. filed a new U.S. Patent for its proprietary and novel CBD-like molecules for the treatment of radiodermatitis and other skin disorders.

Topical agents held dominant position in the global radiodermatitis market in 2019, accounting for 70.5% share in terms of value, followed by dressing and oral medication, respectively

Figure 1. Global Radiodermatitis Market Share (%), by Value, by Product Type, 2019

Radiodermatitis | Coherent Market Insights

Global Radiodermatitis Market: Restraints

Introduction of better radiation therapy equipment is expected to hinder growth of the global radiodermatitis market. The severity and likeliness to develop radiodermatitis can be either patient-related or treatment-related. The treatment-related factors include the type and quality of radiation beam and the location and size of the treatment field. Modern radiotherapy techniques, which include intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton therapy, can diminish the risk for radiodermatitis by more accurately targeting tumor. Such scenario is expected to hinder growth of the market.

Moreover, high cost dressings such as honey-impregnated dressings and silicone dressings is also expected to limit growth of the market.

Global Radiodermatitis Market: Opportunities

R&D in radiodermatitis is expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities for players in the global radiodermatitis market. For instance, Jay Pharma is expected to begin a pilot study centered around radiodermatitis in the second half of 2020.

Moreover, investing in creating awareness regarding radiation-induced skin damage among caregivers and patients in regions with average standard care practices such as Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa is also expected to aid in growth of the market.

The global radiodermatitis market was valued at US$ 346.9 Mn in 2019 and is forecast to reach a value of US$ 472.8 Mn by 2027 at a CAGR of 3.9% between 2020 and 2027.

Figure 2. Global Radiodermatitis Market Value (US$ Mn), and Y-o-Y Growth (%), 2019-2027

Radiodermatitis | Coherent Market Insights

Market Trends/Key Takeaways

The prescription of topical products is high for the treatment of radiodermatitis. Despite insufficient evidence to support a particular product’s use, topical steroids and emollients are the most prescribed agents worldwide for the treatment of radiodermatitis. Aloe vera gel is used as an alternative herbal remedy. Gels can be useful in seborrhoeic areas, whereas creams can be used in areas outside skin folds and seborrhoeic areas.

Over-the-counter (OTC) products are more preferred than prescription products in the treatment of radiodermatitis. This can be attributed to word of mouth recommendations, easy availability of OTC products online as well as from local pharmacies. Hydrophilic creams sooth itching and redness and are available OTC.

Value Chain Analysis

The Value Chain for radiation dermatitis products begins from procurement of raw material, which would include API for oral medicine and silicone/hydrogel for silicone and hydrogel dressings. The material passes the stages of R&D, manufacturing, supply chain and finally is delivered to the end-users in clinics, hospitals or via retail stores (brick & mortar as well as online stores).

Global Radiodermatitis Market: Competitive Landscape

Major players operating in the global radiodermatitis market include, Acelity, Inc. (3M), BMG Pharma S.r.l., ConvaTec Group PLC, DermaSciences Inc. (Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation), Intermed Pharmaceuticals, Molnlycke Health Care, Smith & Nephew Plc, Stratpharma AG, Kannalife, Inc., and Jay Pharma

Global Radiodermatitis Market: Key Developments

Major players in the market are focused on adopting M&A strategies to expand their product portfolio. For instance, in October 2019, 3M acquired Acelity, Inc. and its KCI subsidiaries.

Similarly, in September 2019, Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation acquired Rebound Therapeutics, a developer of single-use medical devices that enable minimally invasive access in neurosurgery.