[Cepharanthin effect on radiation-induced xerostomia and taste disorder in patients with head and neck cancer].

Abstract

In evaluating the effect of cepharanthin on xerostomia and taste disorder in 40 patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, we administered cepharanthin intravenously during chemoradiotherapy to 22 patients, with 18 others as a control group. Cepharanthin did not significantly affect salivary secretion during and after chemoradiotherapy, although taste disorder and oral discomfort were alleviated. Cepharanthin may thus be effective in maintaining the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer.

• Authors: Rintaro Shimazu, Go Tanaka, Rinako Tomiyama, Yuichiro Kuratomi, Akira Inokuchi
• Journal: Nihon Jibiinkoka Gakkai kaiho (Nihon Jibiinkoka Gakkai Kaiho) Vol. 112 Issue 9 Pg. 648-55 (Sep 2009) ISSN: 0030-6622 [Print] Japan
• PMID: 19860267 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Benzylisoquinolines
• Radiation-Protective Agents
• cepharanthine

Topics

• Benzylisoquinolines (therapeutic use)
• Female
• Head and Neck Neoplasms (radiotherapy)
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Radiation Injuries (prevention & control)
• Radiation-Protective Agents (therapeutic use)
• Radiotherapy (adverse effects)
• Taste Disorders (etiology, prevention & control)
• Xerostomia (etiology, prevention & control)