Radiation-induced alterations in multi-layered, in-vitro skin models detected by optical coherence tomography and histological methods

Background Inflammatory skin reactions and skin alterations are still a potential side effect in radiation therapy (RT), which also need attention for patients’ health care. Method In a pre-clinical study we consider alterations in irradiated in-vitro skin models of epidermal and dermal layers. Typical dose regimes in radiation therapy are applied for irradiation. For non-invasive imaging and characterization optical coherence tomography (OCT) is used. Histological staining method is additionally applied for comparison and discussion. Results Structural features, such as keratinization, modifications in epidermal cell layer thickness and disorder in the layering—as indications for reactions to ionizing radiation and aging—could be observed by means of OCT and confirmed by histology. We were able to recognize known RT induced changes such as hyper-keratosis, acantholysis, and epidermal hyperplasia as well as disruption and/or demarcation of the dermo-epidermal junction. Conclusion The results may pave the way for OCT to be considered as a possible adjunctive tool to detect and monitor early skin inflammation and side effects of radiotherapy, thus supporting patient healthcare in the future.