Randomized phase III study comparing Best Supportive Care to Biafine as a prophylactic agent for radiation-induced skin toxicity for women undergoingbreast irradiation: Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) 97-13

Purpose: To determine if Biafine compared to Best Supportive Care (BSC) is effective in minimizing or preventing radiation-induced dermatitis in women undergoing breast irradiation. Methods and Materials: Patients were randomized between Biafine (n = 83) vs . BSC (n = 89), The institutions identified preference for BSC at the time of randomization. A no-treatment arm was allowed (16% received no treatment ). Patients were instructed to apply randomized product three times a day, but not within 4 h of their daily RT session. Application began following t heir first radiation treatment and continued 2 weeks postradiation. Skin de rmatitis was scored weekly utilizing the RTOG and ONS (Oncology Nursing Soc iety) skin toxicity scales, a weekly patient satisfaction and quality-of-li fe questionnaire. Results: Using the RTOG toxicity scale there was no overall difference for maximum dermatitis during RT between Biafine and BSC (p = 0.77). There,vas no difference in maximum toxicity by arm or breast size. There was an inter action between breast size and toxicity, with large-breasted women exhibiti ng more toxicity. Large-breasted women receiving Biafine were more likely t o have no toxicity 6 weeks post RT. Conclusion: There was no overall difference between BSC and Biafine in the prevention, time to, or duration of radiation-induced dermatitis. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc.