Efficacy of Platelet Gel in Children with Stomatitis during Chemotherapy

Abstract

Abstract Introduction. Stomatitis (oral mucositis) is a very serious adverse effect of anticancer therapy, and it may exacerbate treatment outcomes as well as prognoses. Stomatitis is associated with pain during chewing and swallowing, causing discomfort and interfering with eating. It can also lead to weight loss and a delay in child growth and development. None of the numerous therapies used for stomatitis management can be considered universal or sufficiently effective. Allogeneic platelet gel, a formulation that adheres closely to mucosal lesions and is rich in growth factors, may be an effective treatment for accelerating the erosion-healing process. Methods. A prospective, open-label study on the efficacy of platelet gel used for the treatment of stomatitis in children during chemotherapy. Platelet gel was applied to oral mucosal lesions four times a day. Results. 28 patients with Grade II and Grade III stomatitis were enrolled in the study. The first day after applying platelet gel, 93% of patients reported relief from pain. Within 4 to 5 days, one degree of mucosal lesion regression was reported in 89% of patients, indicating a 3 to 5 day reduction in therapy compared to our previous experience. In only two patients did we observe mild adverse events in the form of a burning sensation. Conclusion. Platelet gel contributed to both pain reduction and acceleration of the oral mucosa healing process. It is a safe and effective therapy for children with stomatitis induced by chemotherapy.