Effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor on neuropathic pain associated with radiotherapy for head and neck malignancies and nursing strategy

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) on radiotherapy-related neuropathic pain in patients with head and neck malignancies, and to explore comprehensive nursing strategies. Methods In this retrospective study, a total of 80 patients diagnosed with head and neck malignancy and receiving radiotherapy were divided into 2 groups according to treatment. Patients in the control group received conventional radiation therapy and postoperative care, and those in the trial group received rhEGF in addition to conventional radiation therapy and care. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the pain degree of patients before and after treatment, EORTC QLQ-C30 scale was used to evaluate the quality of life of patients before and after treatment, and the skin and mucosal reactions of patients after radiotherapy were observed. Results Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. VAS scores in the trial group were significantly lower than those in the control group during and after radiotherapy (p < 0.001), and skin and mucosal reactions were less severe (p < 0.05). In addition, compared with the control group, the quality of life and symptom scores of the trial group were significantly improved after treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusion rhEGF can effectively alleviate neuropathic pain during and after radiotherapy in patients with head and neck malignancies, improve skin and mucosal response, and improve quality of life.