Vitamin E in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced mucositis

Am J Med. 1992 May;92(5):481-4. doi: 10.1016/0002-9343(92)90744-v.

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the efficacy of vitamin E in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced mucositis in patients with malignancy.

Patients and methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of topical vitamin E in the treatment of oral mucositis in patients receiving chemotherapy for various types of malignancy. A total of 18 patients, 17 of whom had solid tumors and one with acute leukemia, were included in this study. Lesions were observed daily prior to and 5 days after topical application of either vitamin E or placebo oil.

Results: Six of nine patients receiving vitamin E had complete resolution of their oral lesions. In eight of nine patients who received placebo, complete resolution of their oral lesions was not observed. This difference is statistically significant (p = 0.025 by Fisher's exact test). No toxicity was observed in this study.

Conclusion: These results suggest that vitamin E may be an effective therapy in patients with chemotherapy-induced mucositis.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Mouth Mucosa
  • Stomatitis / chemically induced*
  • Stomatitis / drug therapy*
  • Vitamin E / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin E / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Vitamin E