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Dr. Chambers has received research support from Rx Kinetix, Inc. and MedImmune Oncology and serves as a Consultant to Ruvelo, Inc. Dr. Rosenthal has received research support from MGI Pharma and MedImmune Oncology. Dr. Weber is a Consultant for Imclone/BMS. Dr. Chambers and Dr. Weber have reported a financial interest/relationship with Daiichi Pharmaceutical Corporation as investigators.
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Original Article
Radiation-induced xerostomia†
Article first published online: 11 AUG 2006
DOI: 10.1002/hed.20456
Copyright © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Additional Information
How to Cite
Chambers, M. S., Rosenthal, D. I. and Weber, R. S. (2007), Radiation-induced xerostomia. Head Neck, 29: 58–63. doi: 10.1002/hed.20456
- †
Publication History
- Issue published online: 8 DEC 2006
- Article first published online: 11 AUG 2006
- Manuscript Accepted: 6 MAR 2006
Funded by
- Daiichi Pharmaceutical Corporation
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- xerostomia;
- radiation therapy;
- radioprotective agents;
- intensity modulated radiation therapy;
- oral complications
Abstract
Background.
Radiation-induced xerostomia is a frequent and usually permanent side effect of radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. We summarize recent developments in the prevention and treatment of radiation-induced xerostomia.
Methods.
The Medline database was searched for articles published within the past 10 years on the prevention and treatment of postirradiation xerostomia. Proceedings of recent important national meetings and government Web registries of clinical trials and therapeutic agents were also consulted. Priority was given to randomized controlled trials but, because of the scarcity of such trials, small open trials were included in this review. No other predetermined selection criteria were used, although articles exploring the effects of xerostomia and its treatment on quality of life were considered of special interest.
Results.
A variety of preventive approaches for postirradiation xerostomia exist, involving more conformal radiation delivery technology, radioprotective agents, and even preirradiation surgical techniques. Therapeutic interventions include supportive care, saliva supplementation, and the use of procholinergic salivary secretagogues.
Conclusions.
Radiation-induced xerostomia constitutes a significant morbidity after orofacial irradiation. Careful preventive techniques, meticulous supportive care, and new preventive and therapeutic agents may prove useful in combination. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2006