Comparing the efficacy of linovera spray plus hydrocortisone cream for breast cancer patients undergoing conformal radiotherapy

Background

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies globally, with a significant proportion of patients undergoing radiotherapy, a crucial treatment modality that substantially reduces recurrence rates. However, radiotherapy is often complicated by dermatological adverse effects ranging from mild erythema to severe dermal burns. Despite various interventions aimed at mitigating skin toxicities, the efficacy of hyperoxygenated fatty acids (HOFA) in this context remains underexplored.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of topical HOFA (Linovera spray) in preventing radiotherapy-induced skin reactions in breast cancer patients undergoing conformal radiotherapy.

Methods

This prospective, randomized, controlled trial enrolled post-partial mastectomy breast cancer patients indicated for conformal radiotherapy targeting lymph node levels and the supraclavicular region, with dosages of 45–50 Gy and a 60 Gy tumor bed boost. Patients with active skin diseases or sensitivity to the study spray were excluded. The intervention group applied hydrocortisone ointment and Linovera spray twice daily to the treatment site, while the control group used only hydrocortisone ointment. Skin reactions were graded using the validated Global Skin Reaction Classification and assessed during radiotherapy weeks 3 and 5.

Results

All 60 randomized patients (intervention n = 24, control n = 28) developed radiation dermatitis. By week 5, the intervention group showed a statistically significant reduction in dermatitis severity versus controls (p = 0.04). Dermatitis grades also significantly worsened within both groups from week 3–5 (all p < 0.001).

Conclusion

While HOFA-based moisturizers did not statistically impact overall incidence or severity, marginal benefits were observed with prolonged Linovera spray plus hydrocortisone use versus hydrocortisone alone by week 5. Further research is warranted to explore HOFA's potential skin-protective effects.