Effects of topical polydeoxyribonucleotide on radiation-induced oral mucositis.

Introduction: Oral mucositis, the most common adverse effect of radiotherapy (RT) and/or chemotherapy is observed in almost 97% of patients with head and neck cancer. Although several agents like corticosteroids, lidocaine and vitamins are available for its prevention or management, results are often disappointing. Here we report on the effects of a topically applied, highly purified natural deoxyribonucleic acid from sturgeon gonads on three cases of moderate to severe oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer.