Topical Curcumin for Prevention of Radiation-Induced Dermatitis: A Pilot Double‑Blind, Placebo‑Controlled Trial

Radiation-induced dermatitis, a common radiotherapy (RT) complication, affects 95% of breast cancer patients, with 10% experiencing severe reactions. Despite advancements, radiation dermatitis remains a challenge, disrupting treatment schedules and compromising patients' quality of life. Exploring herbal compounds, particularly Curcumin, has shown promise in addressing radiation-induced dermatitis, with its non-toxic and anti-inflammatory properties offering the potential for clinical trials to prevent these reactions.

This phase II randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial focused on adult females undergoing conventional fractionated RT. The main objective was to assess the efficacy of topical Curcumin in reducing the severity of radiation dermatitis.

During a five-month study, 52 breast cancer patients completed the research. Participants were divided into Curcumin and placebo groups. In the first week, a significant difference in redness (P-value = 0.001) and irritation (P-value = 0.017) was observed, with the Curcumin group showing lower percentages. This trend continued in the second, third, and fourth weeks (P-value = 0.001). No statistical difference was found in itching (P-value = 0.446), and the occurrence of dryness (P-value = 1.000) remained constant in both groups throughout the four weeks. In pain the differences were significant in the second, third, and fourth weeks (P-value = 0.001).

The study highlights the success of a 2% Curcumin gel in reducing skin side effects during breast cancer radiation therapy, suggesting its potential to enhance patients' quality of life.

IRCT20181208041882N3, 06/11/2020 (https://en.irct.ir/trial/49228).