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Strahlentherapie Und Onkologie : Organ... Jul 2024To identify potential Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) of susceptibility for the development of acute radiation dermatitis in head and neck cancer patients, and... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
PURPOSE
To identify potential Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) of susceptibility for the development of acute radiation dermatitis in head and neck cancer patients, and also to verify the association between SNPs and the severity of RD.
METHODS
This systematic review was reported according to the PRISMA guideline. The proportion meta-analysis was performed to identify the prevalence of genetic markers by geographical region and radiation dermatitis severity. The meta-analysis was performed to verify the association between genetic markers and RD severity. The certainty of the evidence was assessed by GRADE.
RESULTS
Thirteen studies were included. The most prevalent SNPs were XRCC3 (rs861639) (36%), TGFβ1 (rs1800469) (35%), and RAD51 (rs1801321) (34%). There are prevalence studies in Europe and Asia, with a similar prevalence for all SNPs (29-40%). The prevalence was higher in patients who developed radiation dermatitis ≤2 for any subtype of genes (75-76%). No SNP showed a statistically significant association with very low certainty of evidence.
CONCLUSION
The most prevalent SNPs may be predictors of acute RD. The analysis of SNP before starting radiation therapy may be a promising method to predict the risk of developing radiation dermatitis and allow radiosensitive patients to have a customized treatment. This current review provides new research directions.
Topics: Humans; Genetic Markers; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Head and Neck Neoplasms; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Radiodermatitis; Risk Factors
PubMed: 38668865
DOI: 10.1007/s00066-024-02237-3 -
Clinical Oncology (Royal College of... Jul 2024Approximately 55% of patients diagnosed with primary or metastatic cancer endure pain directly attributable to the disease. Consequently, it becomes imperative to... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Comparative Study
AIMS
Approximately 55% of patients diagnosed with primary or metastatic cancer endure pain directly attributable to the disease. Consequently, it becomes imperative to address pain management through a comparative analysis of stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) and conventional radiation therapy (CRT), especially in light of the less efficacious improvement achieved solely through pharmacological interventions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A systematic exploration was undertaken on PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Elsevier's ScienceDirect databases to identify studies that compare Stereotactic Radiotherapy to Conventional radiation therapy for pain management in individuals with metastatic bone cancer. The analyses were executed utilizing the random-effects model.
RESULTS
A cohort of 1152 participants with metastatic bone cancer was analyzed, demonstrating significantly higher complete pain relief in the Stereotactic Radiotherapy group during both early and late follow-up (RR: 1.61; 95% CI: 1.17, 2.23, p-value: 0.004; I2: 0%). Stereotactic Radiotherapy also showed a non-significant increase in the incidence of partial pain relief (RR: 1.07; 95% CI: 0.85, 1.34, p-value: 0.56; I2: 18%). Furthermore, Stereotactic Radiotherapy was associated with a significantly reduced risk of stationary pain throughout follow-up (RR: 0.61; 95%CI: 0.48, 0.76, p-value: <0.0001; I2: 0. The incidence of progressive pain was non-significantly reduced with Stereotactic Radiotherapy during both early and late follow-up (RR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.50, 1.17, p-value: 0.22; I2: 0%). Secondary outcomes exhibited a non-significant trend favoring Stereotactic Radiotherapy for dysphagia, esophagitis, pain, and radiodermatitis, while a non-significant increase was observed for nausea, fatigue, and vertebral compression fracture.
CONCLUSION
In summary, stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) has improved in achieving complete pain relief while exhibiting a decreased probability of delivering stationary pain compared to conventional radiation therapy (CRT). Nevertheless, it is crucial in future research to address a noteworthy limitation, specifically, the risk of vertebral compression fracture.
Topics: Humans; Radiosurgery; Cancer Pain; Pain Management; Bone Neoplasms
PubMed: 38664177
DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2024.04.004 -
Japan Journal of Nursing Science : JJNS Jan 2024To evaluate the effectiveness of herbal agents in the prevention and therapy of radiodermatitis in breast cancer patients. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness of herbal agents in the prevention and therapy of radiodermatitis in breast cancer patients.
METHODS
Randomized controlled trials were searched from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) to assess the effectiveness of herbal agents compared to a standard medication or placebo in prevention or treatment of radiodermatitis in breast cancer.
RESULTS
Data from 16 studies involving 1994 patients were included. This meta-analysis included 10 clinical trials of 562 breast cancer patients treated with calendula, silymarin, or aloe vera for the prevention of radiodermatitis. Silymarin showed positive effects in ameliorating the damage of radiodermatitis, whereas the efficacy of calendula and aloe vera in the treatment of radiodermatitis lacks sufficient evidence.
CONCLUSIONS
Herbal medicine may show therapeutic effects on radiodermatitis in breast cancer, but more comprehensive investigations and clinical trials are required in the future.
Topics: Humans; Female; Radiodermatitis; Breast Neoplasms; Drugs, Chinese Herbal; Silymarin
PubMed: 37816677
DOI: 10.1111/jjns.12559 -
Strahlentherapie Und Onkologie : Organ... Feb 2024Radiation-induced skin reactions remain one of the most frequent side effects of adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer, which is the most common global malignancy. In... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
Radiation-induced skin reactions remain one of the most frequent side effects of adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer, which is the most common global malignancy. In individual cases, we observed a decrease in radiation dermatitis under film dressings used for skin marking purposes. Therefore, we decided to revise the available evidence regarding the prophylactic use of film dressings to reduce radiation dermatitis in breast cancer patients.
METHODS
On 20 March 2023, we conducted a systematic review of literature for randomized controlled trials published in the English, German, French, or Spanish language, available in the PubMed database.
RESULTS
Of 82 publications, 9 full texts were assessed and 6 randomized controlled trials were included in the final synthesis. Two trials analyzed the application of polyurethane film (Hydrofilm, Paul Hartmann AG, Heidenheim, Germany), the other four of silicone-based polyurethane film (Mepitel film, Molnlycke Health Care Limited, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom). The evaluation scales Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG), and the Radiation-Induced Skin Reaction Assessment Scale (RISRAS) were used for assessment. All six trials, with a total of 788 patients yielding data for analysis, demonstrate a significant decrease in radiation-induced skin reactions by use of the film (mainly p < 0.001).
CONCLUSION
Our analysis demonstrates a significant decrease in radiation-induced skin reactions by prophylactically applied film dressings in breast cancer patients. Consequent preventive use of film dressings might systematically reduce acute radiation-induced skin reactions in these patients.
Topics: Female; Humans; Bandages; Breast; Breast Neoplasms; Polyurethanes; Radiodermatitis
PubMed: 37755486
DOI: 10.1007/s00066-023-02151-0 -
Supportive Care in Cancer : Official... Aug 2023This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Mepitel film in preventing or treating acute radiation dermatitis (RD) in patients with breast... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
PURPOSE
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Mepitel film in preventing or treating acute radiation dermatitis (RD) in patients with breast cancer in randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
METHODS
Embase, APA PsychInfo, Journals@Ovid Full Text, Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, and Cochrane Trials were searched until December 12, 2022, to identify RCTs on the use of Mepitel film for preventing or treating acute RD from breast cancer radiotherapy. Per-protocol analysis was used to compare outcomes, calculate pooled effect sizes, odds ratio (OR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI), and to create forest plots using random effects analysis in RevMan 5.4.
RESULTS
Three RCTs were included in this review. Mepitel film significantly reduced the incidence of grade 3 RD (OR 0.15 95% CI 0.06, 0.37, p<0.0001) and grade 2 or 3 RD (OR 0.16 95% CI 0.04, 0.65, p=0.01) as scored on either the CTCAE or the RTOG scale. Additionally, Mepitel film significantly reduced RISRAS mean scores assessed by patients and combined researcher and patient (standardized mean difference (SMD) -7.59, 95% CI -14.42, -0.76, p=0.03; SMD -15.36, 95% CI -30.01, -0.71 p=0.04) but not the researcher component of the assessment tool (SMD -17.55, 95% CI -36.94, 1.84, p=0.08).
CONCLUSION
Mepitel film reduced the incidence of acute RD and improved patient-reported outcomes with minimal side effects, the main one being itchiness. Future research should assess the feasibility of Mepitel film with respect to specific patient-reported outcomes such as health-related quality of life issues associated with its use.
Topics: Humans; Female; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Breast Neoplasms; Silicones; Radiodermatitis
PubMed: 37584828
DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07982-2 -
Supportive Care in Cancer : Official... Aug 2023To evaluate the overall efficacy of StrataXRT, a topical gel dressing, in preventing acute radiation dermatitis (RD) in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
PURPOSE
To evaluate the overall efficacy of StrataXRT, a topical gel dressing, in preventing acute radiation dermatitis (RD) in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy (RT).
METHODS
A systematic search was conducted on April 25, 2023 in Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of StrataXRT in preventing acute RD in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant RT to the breast or chest wall with or without regional nodes were included. Pooled incidence odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model, with analysis and forest plots generated in RevMan v5.4.
RESULTS
The analysis included three RCTs with a total of 189 patients assessed using per-protocol analysis. Two RCTs compared StrataXRT to standard of care, while the third compared it with Mepitel film and was reported separately. In the former RCTs, the odds ratio (OR) for developing acute grade 3 RD favored StrataXRT at 0.05 (95% CI, 0.01-0.22; P < 0.0001). The OR for developing acute grades 2-3 RD was 0.32 (95% CI, 0.03-3.18; P = 0.33). The RCT comparing StrataXRT with Mepitel film showed insignificant ORs for grade 3 and grades 2-3 RD. One RCT reported significantly lower erythema index (P = 0.008) and melanin index (P = 0.015) in StrataXRT patients. The use of StrataXRT did not raise additional safety concerns.
CONCLUSION
StrataXRT may help prevent severe acute RD in breast cancer RT patients. Further high quality, large-scale studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Topics: Humans; Female; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Breast Neoplasms; Silicones; Radiodermatitis
PubMed: 37556002
DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07983-1 -
Breast (Edinburgh, Scotland) Oct 2023Radiation dermatitis (RD) is the most common side effect of adjuvant whole-breast or chest wall irradiation, majorly impacting quality of life in numerous patients. The... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
PURPOSE
Radiation dermatitis (RD) is the most common side effect of adjuvant whole-breast or chest wall irradiation, majorly impacting quality of life in numerous patients. The use of barrier films (polyurethane dressings such as Hydrofilm® and Mepitel® film remaining on the skin for the duration of the radiation treatment) has been investigated as a prophylactic measure in several prospective trials. Here, we critically appraise the available evidence behind preventive barrier film application in the context of breast cancer treatment.
METHODS
International literature was reviewed and high-quality randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this meta-analysis.
RESULTS
The results of 5 RCTs (663 patients; >90% Caucasian) were analysed. Overall, barrier films lead to improved clinician- and patient-reported outcomes: fewer grade ≥2 RD (11% vs. 42%; OR = 0.16; p < 0.001) and moist desquamation (2% vs. 16%; OR = 0.12; p = 0.006), as well as less patient-reported pain (standardised mean difference [SMD] -0.51; p < 0.001), itching (SMD -0.52; p = 0.001), burning (SMD -0.41; p = 0.011), and limitations in daily activities (SMD -0.20; p = 0.007). Furthermore, barrier films have a high acceptance rate among patients, as well as a favourable cost-benefit ratio. Possible side effects due to its application are mild and mostly self-limiting. Overall, there was a lack of information on the radiation treatment techniques used.
CONCLUSION
The evidence presented in this meta-analysis suggests that barrier films are an excellent tool in the prevention of RD among Caucasian patients receiving whole-breast or chest wall irradiation. Its use should therefore be considered routinely in these patients.
Topics: Humans; Female; Breast Neoplasms; Radiodermatitis; Skin; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 37473629
DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2023.07.001 -
JAMA Dermatology Aug 2023Chemotherapy-induced pseudocellulitis is an ill-defined term for a poorly understood phenomenon. Encompassing a myriad of cellulitis-mimicking oncologic adverse...
IMPORTANCE
Chemotherapy-induced pseudocellulitis is an ill-defined term for a poorly understood phenomenon. Encompassing a myriad of cellulitis-mimicking oncologic adverse cutaneous drug reactions (ACDRs), pseudocellulitis may be difficult to diagnosis, and the lack of treatment guidance may mean unnecessary antibiotic exposure and interruptions to oncologic care.
OBJECTIVES
To use case reports to characterize the various cellulitis-mimicking reactions caused by chemotherapeutic medications, to understand how these reactions affect patient care (ie, antibiotic exposure and interruptions to oncologic treatment), and to make recommendations for improved diagnosis and care of patients with chemotherapy-induced pseudocellulitis.
EVIDENCE REVIEW
A systematic review of case reports of patients with pseudocellulitis was performed. Reports were identified through database searches using PubMed and Embase, with subsequent reference searches. Included publications described at least 1 case of chemotherapy-induced ACDR and used the term pseudocellulitis or showed evidence of cellulitis mimicry. Cases of radiation recall dermatitis were excluded. Data were extracted from a total of 32 publications representing 81 patients diagnosed with pseudocellulitis.
FINDINGS
Of the 81 cases (median [range] age, 67 [36-80] years; 44 [54%] male patients), most were associated with gemcitabine use; pemetrexed use was reported less frequently. Only 39 were considered to be true chemotherapy-induced pseudocellulitis. These cases resembled infectious cellulitis and did not meet diagnostic criteria for any known diagnoses; therefore, these were described solely as pseudocellulitis. Of this group, 26 patients (67%) had been administered antibiotics before the correct diagnosis was made, and 14 patients (36%) experienced interruptions to their oncologic treatment plans.
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE
This systematic review found a variety of chemotherapy-induced ACDRs that mimic infectious cellulitis, including a group of reactions termed pseudocellulitis that do not meet criteria for other diagnoses. A more universally accepted definition and clinical research on chemotherapy-induced pseudocellulitis would allow for more accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, antibiotic stewardship, and continuation of oncologic treatment.
Topics: Humans; Male; Aged; Female; Deoxycytidine; Cellulitis; Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic; Gemcitabine; Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; Anti-Bacterial Agents
PubMed: 37379014
DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2023.1735 -
Supportive Care in Cancer : Official... Jun 2023Radiation dermatitis (RD) is a frequently occurring adverse reaction during radiotherapy in cancer patients. While the use of topical corticosteroids (TCs) is common for... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
PURPOSE
Radiation dermatitis (RD) is a frequently occurring adverse reaction during radiotherapy in cancer patients. While the use of topical corticosteroids (TCs) is common for the treatment of RD, its role in preventing severe reactions remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the evidence on the use of TCs as prophylaxis of RD.
METHODS
A systematic search was conducted using OVID MedLine, Embase, and Cochrane databases (between 1946 and 2023) to identify studies examining TC use in the prevention of severe RD. Statistical analysis was completed using RevMan 5.4 to calculate pooled effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals. Forest plots were then developed using a random effects model.
RESULTS
Ten RCTs with a total of 1041 patients met the inclusion criteria. Six studies reported on mometasone furoate (MF) and four studies reported on betamethasone. Both TCs were associated with a significant improvement in the prevention of moist desquamation [OR = 0.34, 95% CI [0.25, 0.47], p < 0.00001], but betamethasone was found to be more effective than MF [OR = 0.29, 95% CI [0.18, 0.46], p < 0.00001 and OR = 0.39, 95% CI [0.25, 0.61], p < 0.0001, respectively]. A similar finding was seen in reducing the development of grade 2 or higher RD according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scale.
CONCLUSIONS
The current evidence supports the use of TCs in preventing severe reactions of RD. Both MF and betamethasone were found to be effective; however, betamethasone, a higher potency TC, is more effective despite MF being more commonly reported in literature.
Topics: Humans; Dermatologic Agents; Betamethasone; Radiodermatitis; Adrenal Cortex Hormones
PubMed: 37280403
DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07820-5 -
Phytotherapy Research : PTR Aug 2023Radiodermatitis in breast cancer patients varies from mild irritation to life-threatening lesions. Several studies suggest a role for topical corticosteroid ointments in... (Review)
Review
Radiodermatitis in breast cancer patients varies from mild irritation to life-threatening lesions. Several studies suggest a role for topical corticosteroid ointments in the treatment of radiodermatitis. Yet, to avoid the adverse effects of corticosteroids, many authors recommend the use of topical herbal products instead. The therapeutic role of herbal treatments has yet to be fully understood. This systematic review evaluates the role of topical or oral herbal medicines in radiodermatitis prevention and treatment. A systematic search of four databases (Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) was performed without language and time restrictions from their inception until April 2023. The bibliographies of potential articles were also searched manually. Studies evaluated and compared the effects of herbal preparations with the control group, on dermatitis induced by radiotherapy for breast cancer. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess the included studies. Thirty-five studies were included in the systematic review. Studies which used herbal drugs including topical and oral formulations were evaluated. Herbal monotherapy and combination therapy were reported, and their effects on radiodermatitis were explained in the systematic review. In conclusion, henna ointments, silymarin gel, and Juango cream were reported to reduce the severity of radiodermatitis. These agents should be considered for radiodermatitis prophylaxis and treatment. The data on aloe gel and calendula ointment were conflicting. Further randomized controlled trials of herbal medications and new herbal formulations are required to determine their effects on breast cancer radiodermatitis.
Topics: Humans; Female; Radiodermatitis; Ointments; Breast Neoplasms; Plant Extracts; Silymarin
PubMed: 37211432
DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7894