Efficacy of Lvpao Powder on Radiation Therapy–Induced Mucositis: A Retrospective Study of 114 Patients With Head and Neck Carcinoma

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety of Kangfuxin solution and lvpao powder on mucositis induced by radiation therapy in head and neck carcinoma patients. We retrospectively analyzed 114 patients with head and neck malignant tumors in our center. Methods and Materials: Patients were given Kangfuxin solution to rinse the mouth or Lvpao powder sprayed on oral mucosa after the solution use. The side effect was evaluated by Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0. Results: The grade 3 mucositis occurred in 32.9% (23/70) and 11.4% (5/44) in Kangfuxin solution group and Kangfuxin solution + lvpao powder group, respectively (P = .009). The pain score of the Kangfuxin solution group was significantly higher than that of the Kangfuxin solution and lvpao powder group, with 4.26 ± 0.81 versus 3.75 ± 1.03 (P = .007). The time of symptom relief in the combined group was significantly shorter than that in the single drug group, with 3 days versus 6 days (P = .000). The weight loss of the former groups was bigger than that of the latter group (6.67 ± 1.20 kg vs 5.95 ± 0.94 kg; P = .001). There was no statistical difference in the limitations in mouth opening (P = .164). Conclusions: Lvpao powder is safe and effective as a mucosal repair drug in accelerating the recovery of patients and reducing their body weight.