Clinical Evaluation of Oral Curcumin in Prevention of Acute Dermatitis in Breast Cancer Radiotherapy



Hemati S¹ ; Saeedi A¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2011

Abstract

Background: Acute radiation induced dermatitis, has a history as long as breast radiotherapy. Although new techniques have reduced the onset of dermatitis in breast radiotherapy patients, no standard protocol exists for its prophylaxis. This study has evaluated Curcumin for prophylaxis of radiation induced dermatitis. Methods: 40 breast radiotherapy candidates randomly put in two equal groups, received oral capsules (four 500 mg capsules, 3 times a day) filled with Curcumin or Placebo from 2 days before to the last day of radiotherapy 6 weeks course. Dermatitis degree recorded in weekly visits. Findings: A faster increasing in mean degree of dermatitis was seen in placebo group. The difference was statistically significant in last two weeks of radiotherapy. No considerable side effect was reported. Patients' age, type of surgery, hormone receptor and HER2/neu status, did not affect curcumin group superiority in degree of radiation induced dermatitis. Conclusion: Oral curcumin is effective in prophylaxis of radiation induced dermatitis in breast cancer radiation.