Effects of Boron-Based Gel on Radiation-Induced Dermatitis in Breast Cancer: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Aysan E., Idiz U. O., Elmas L., KAYTAN SAĞLAM E., Akgun Z., Yucel S.

JOURNAL OF INVESTIGATIVE SURGERY, vol.30, no.3, pp.187-192, 2017 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 30 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2017
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/08941939.2016.1232449
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF INVESTIGATIVE SURGERY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.187-192
  • Keywords: boron, breast, cancer, radiation, dermatitis, gel, PHASE-III, IN-VITRO, SKIN REACTIONS, DIETARY BORON, THERAPY, PREVENTION, IRRADIATION, EXPRESSION, MANAGEMENT, TOXICITY
  • Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University Affiliated: No

Abstract

Aim: This study is aimed to evaluate the effects of boron on radiation-induced skin reactions (RISR) in breast cancer patients. Material and methods: After 47 patients with invasive ductal carcinoma underwent radiotherapy, 23 (49%) received a boron-based gel, and 24 (51%) received placebo. Assessments were performed according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) skin scale and a Five-Point Horizontal Scale (FPHS). Results: At the end of the fifth week of radiotherapy, the RTOG scores in the boron group were significantly lower than those in the placebo group (p = .024). The FPHS score was higher in the placebo group than in the boron group, and this difference was not statistically significant (p = .079). Conclusion: Using the RTOG scoring system, we revealed that the application of a boron-based gel diminished RISR. The mechanism of action is unclear but may be related to antioxidant, wound healing, and thermal degradation effects of boron.