Abstract 534P
Background
Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck is the seventh most common cancer globally and among the top five in Thailand. Chemotherapy-induced mucositis affects about 90% of patients undergoing combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The use of 2% lidocaine oral viscous is limited by its portability issues, difficulty swallowing, and unpleasant taste. This study aimed to compare the effects of 2% peppermint lidocaine spray with conventional 2% lidocaine oral viscous on immediate pain reduction (at 0 and 5 minutes), feasibility, and quality of life in head and neck cancer patients undergoing concurrent cisplatin and radiation-induced mucositis.
Methods
This open-label, randomized controlled trial randomized patients using blocks of four into two groups. A research nurse collected data on pain scores and quality of life using the modified Oral Mucositis Weekly Questionnaires-Head and Neck Cancer (OMWQ-HN), which includes 2-item and 12-item versions. A feasibility score (1 to 5) was assessed at the end of treatment, and product usage was monitored weekly until the completion of the radiation course.
Results
Forty-five patients participated. The median radiation dose was similar in both groups. Initial baseline pain scores were comparable (1.65 in the spray group vs. 2.18 in the viscous group, p=0.095). Immediate pain reduction scores did not significantly differ (2.76 for spray vs. 2.28 for viscous, p=0.46). There were no significant differences in 12-item OMWQ-HN scores. However, the spray group reported better global health and quality of life according to the 2-item OMWQ-HN and was more feasible to use (p=0.001) and preferred in taste (p=0.034) compared to the viscous group.
Conclusions
The 2% peppermint lidocaine spray enhances patient satisfaction and quality of life in head and neck cancer patients with chemoradiation-induced mucositis, without compromising pain control efficacy.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
Routine to Research Unit Siriraj Hospital.
Funding
Routine to Research Unit Siriraj Hospital.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.