Effects of Boron-Based Gel on Radiation-Induced Dermatitis in Breast Cancer: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

AIM: This study is aimed to evaluate the effects of boron on radiation-induced skin reactions (RISR) in breast cancer patients.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

After 47 patients with invasive ductal carcinoma underwent radiotherapy, 23 (49%) received a boron-based gel, and 24 (51%) received placebo. Assessments were performed according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) skin scale and a Five-Point Horizontal Scale (FPHS).

RESULTS

At the end of the fifth week of radiotherapy, the RTOG scores in the boron group were significantly lower than those in the placebo group (p = .024). The FPHS score was higher in the placebo group than in the boron group, and this difference was not statistically significant (p = .079).

CONCLUSION

Using the RTOG scoring system, we revealed that the application of a boron-based gel diminished RISR. The mechanism of action is unclear but may be related to antioxidant, wound healing, and thermal degradation effects of boron.