Definition

An inflammatory reaction that can occur when certain anticancer drugs are given after radiation therapy. It usually affects the part of the body that received radiation, especially the skin. It can also affect the lungs, mouth, larynx, esophagus, other parts of the digestive tract, muscles, and the brain. On the skin, radiation recall may look like a severe sunburn and may blister, peel, and become red, swollen, and painful. If other areas of the body are affected, signs and symptoms will vary depending on the site of the radiation. Radiation recall can occur weeks, months, or years after radiation therapy has ended.