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Platelet gel in cutaneous radiation dermatitis.
Vincenzo Iervolino1, Gaetano Di Costanzo, Rosa Azzaro
1Transfusion Service, Department of Haematology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy.
Summary
Autologous platelet gel effectively treats chronic radiation dermatitis in cancer patients. This therapy promotes tissue repair and offers a cost-effective alternative to conventional treatments, improving patient quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Radiotherapy is crucial for cancer treatment but can cause severe cutaneous and mucosal lesions.
- Conventional treatments for chronic radiation dermatitis show limited efficacy.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel contains growth factors that promote tissue regeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of autologous platelet gel in treating chronic cutaneous radiation dermatitis.
- To assess the safety and cost-effectiveness of this regenerative therapy.
Main Methods:
- Autologous platelet gel was prepared using autologous thrombin and tested for safety.
- The gel was applied topically weekly to ten patients with chronic radiation dermatitis resistant to conventional treatments.
- Patients had a history of limb sarcoma treated with surgery and radiotherapy.
Main Results:
- Autologous platelet gel was successful in 7 out of 10 patients.
- Healing processes were observed in all cases.
- At 5-year follow-up, 6 of the 7 successfully treated patients remained disease and lesion-free.
Conclusions:
- Autologous platelet gel is a viable treatment for chronic cutaneous radiation dermatitis.
- This therapy offers improved patient compliance and a favorable cost-benefit ratio.
- It reduces the need for additional medications and hospital visits.
