Topical use of phytotherapic cream (Capilen® cream) to prevent radiodermatitis in breast cancer: a prospective historically controlled clinical study.

AIM: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of a topical phytotherapic product (Capilen® cream) to limit acute radiodermitis and delay the use of corticosteroids in patients with breast cancer (BC). METHODS: From January 2012 to August 2012, 30 consecutive patients, undergoing radiotherapy with adjuvant intent, were invited to use Capilen® cream two times daily two weeks before and during radiotherapy. An historical group was used as an external control. Acute skin toxicity was scored weekly according to RTOG/EORTC criteria. Time of occurrence of acute skin toxicity was taken as endpoint. RESULTS: Compliance was good. Overall, no significative statistical difference was observed in rate of acute radiation dermatitis, 46.7% in experimental arm versus 63.3% in the historical control group, although only 3.3% of Capilen® cream treated patients had a G3 acute radiation dermatitis versus 10% of the control group. A delay in the onset of radition dermatitis in patients treated with Capilen® cream (P=0.04) was showed. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggested that Capilen® cream plays a role in reducing acute radiation dermatitis in breast cancer patients treated with adjuvant radiotherapy. Further evidence is needed to confirm these results.