Title:Probiotics in the Prevention of Mucositis in People Undergoing Curative
Radiotherapy for their Head and Neck Cancer: A Mini-Review
Volume: 1
Author(s): Abhishek Krishna*, Vijaya Marakala, Rashmi T. D'souza, Vinayaka R. Shenoy, Sandeep D'souza, Ramakrishna Pai Jakribettu and Manjeshwar Shrinath Baliga*
Affiliation:
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
- Research Unit, Mangalore
Institute of Oncology, Pumpwell, Mangalore, India
Keywords:
Probiotics, head and neck cancer, ionising radiation, oral mucositis, radiotherapy chemotherapy.
Abstract: Radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC) is associated with a dose-limiting side
effect known as radiation-induced oral mucositis (RIOM), which severely diminishes the quality of
life for patients. The best part is that this adverse effect has identified risk factors, enabling the implementation
of preventative medication to delay/mitigate the ill effects, colonization of opportunistic
microbes, and infection. Clinically, several effective strategies have been developed to prevent
severe RIOM. However, there are limited options for solutions that are both advantageous and practical
while also being cost-effective to implement. Results from well-designed and carried-out research
have indicated that probiotics have potential benefits in both the management and prevention
of RIOM. Research using animal models and clinical studies has affirmatively shown that the utilization
of probiotic organisms can successfully modify the intensity of inflammation by modifying
the composition, metabolism, and functional characteristics of natural microbiota. Furthermore, the
majority (3 of 4) randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies revealed that probiotics were
beneficial in decreasing RIOM. This article collates and examines the scientific observations, addresses
the underlying mechanisms, and explores the potential benefits of probiotics in mitigating
the occurrence and severity of RIOM.
