Rashad, U.M., Al-Gezawy, S.M., El-Gezawy, E., & Azzaz, A.N. (2009). Honey as topical prophylaxis against radiochemotherapy-induced mucositis in head and neck cancer. Journal of Laryngology and Otology, 123, 223–228.

DOI Link

Intervention Characteristics/Basic Study Process

Patients smeared 20 mL of pure, natural honey (acidic with a pH of about 3.9) on the inside of their mouths 15 minutes before, 15 minutes after, and six hours after radiation. Patients rinsed honey on oral mucosa and then swallowed it slowly. Patients were randomized to the treatment or control group. Patients also used benzydamine HCL plus supportive oral care measures. A solubility-reducing factor present in honey can activate in the absence of saliva.

Sample Characteristics

  • N (experimental group) = 20
  • N (control group) = 20
  • KEY DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Patients with head and neck cancer receiving chemotherapy and radiotherapy
  • OTHER KEY SAMPLE CHARACTERISTICS: Radiation dose of 60–66 Gy; chemotherapy: cisplatin 20 mg/m2 once a week before radiotherapy


 

Setting

  • April 2005–July 2006

Measurement Instruments/Methods

  • World Health Organization

Results

  • Treatment group: No patients developed grade 4 mucositis, and only three (15%) developed grade 3 mucositis.
  • Control group: Three patients (15%) developed grade 4 mucositis, and nine (45%) developed grade 3 mucositis.
  • Stated as significant, but value not given
  • Five patients in the control group had therapy interrupted.
     

Limitations

  • Small sample
  • Did not give p values for differences in mucositis
     

Nursing Implications

  • Easy to use
  • Cost-effective
  • Pleasant