Local α-tocopherol for acute and short-term vaginal toxicity prevention in patients treated with radiotherapy for gynecologic tumors.

INTRODUCTION: Data in literature about the use of adjuvant treatment to reduce acute adverse effects of radiotherapy on the pelvis are scant, with the exception of a few reports on the topical use of estrogen, which promotes proliferation of epithelium.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective trial, α-tocopherol acetate was topically administered to patients affected by endometrial and cervical cancer and undergoing radiation treatment to avoid acute vaginal complications.
RESULTS: Vaginal application of α-tocopherol reduced vaginal toxicity and pain, although vaginal secretion was not significantly different in the 2 groups studied. The histological scoring system showed a significant reduction of inflammation, no difference in fibrosis, and an increase of acanthosis.
CONCLUSIONS: The use of α-tocopherol as adjuvant treatment to reduce the acute adverse effects of radiotherapy on the vagina should be considered.