Comparison of liposomal gel with and without addition of chamomile for prevention of radiation dermatitis in head and neck cancer patients: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Head and neck cancer patients frequently develop radiation dermatitis (RD) during radiotherapy. We compared liposomal gel with and without chamomile extract for the prevention and management of RD in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty participants undergoing radiotherapy for the first time for head and neck cancer were recruited in a double-blind randomized clinical trial. Primary outcomes were the occurrence of dry desquamation and the cumulative dose of ionizing radiation at the first occurrence of dry desquamation. Secondary outcomes were the occurrence of erythema, moist desquamation, global RD, and participant self-reported symptoms. RESULTS: Dry desquamation occurred in 76.9 % (95 % CI: 57.9, 89.0) of participants in the chamomile liposomal gel group and in 88.9 % (95 % CI: 71.9, 96.1) in the liposomal gel group (p = 0.43). The median cumulative dose of ionizing radiation when dry desquamation occurred was 48.0 Gy in the chamomile liposomal gel group and 40.0 Gy in the liposomal gel group. Fewer symptoms were reported in the chamomile liposomal gel group. CONCLUSION: No statistically significant differences in outcomes were found between the two groups, though the chamomile liposomal gel group presented with lower grades of RD than the liposomal gel group. In addition, when compared to the literature on other topical interventions to manage RD, our results show that chamomile liposomal gel has potential for better management and prevention of RD in this population, which should be further tested. This study provides crucial information to design future studies. Clinical Trials Registration (REBEC): RBR-92cts3.

Is there an association between head and neck cancer diagnosis and self-reported dental fear? A dual-center cross-sectional study.

Introduction: Mental distress is highly reported in cancer patients, resulting in anxiety and depression most of the time. Both conditions, in turn, are recognized to be related to dental fear in adults; however, there are no studies on patients suffering from head and neck cancer. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate whether newly diagnosed patients with head and neck cancer are more prone to self-reported dental fear. Material and Methods: This dual-center cross-sectional study was conducted with 25 healthy outpatients and 25 patients with a recent diagnosis of head and neck cancer, all requiring dental care. The patients were informed at the first appointment about their dental therapy planning and the Brazilian Portuguese Version of the Dental Fear Survey (DFS) questionnaire was then applied after appropriate instructions. Results: The DFS total scores did not differ statistically between the groups (Mann-Whitney U test, P = 0,120) but the Cancer Group presented a slightly higher mean score (32.2 ± 10.0) than the Control Group (30.0 ± 14.2). Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, newly diagnosed patients with head and neck cancer and healthy individuals seem to experience similar self-reported dental fear.

Nutritional Prognosis of Patients Submitted to Radiotherapy and Its Implications in Treatment.

Oncological patients show intense catabolic activity, as well as a susceptibility to higher nutritional risk and clinical complications. Thus, tools are used for monitoring prognosis. Our objective was to analyze the nutrition prognosis of patients who underwent radiotherapy, correlating it with outcomes and complications. We performed a retrospective transversal study based on secondary data from hospital records of patients who started radiotherapy between July 2022 and July 2023. We established Prognostic Scores through a combination of Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) and a Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), assessed at the beginning and end of treatment. Score 3 patients, with PNI ≤ 45.56 and an SGA outcome of malnutrition, initially presented a higher occurrence of odynophagia, later also being indicative of reduced diet volume, treatment interruption, and dysphagia. SGA alone showed sensitivity to altered diet volume, dysphagia, and xerostomia in the second assessment. Besides this, PNI ≤ 45.56 also indicated the use of alternative feeding routes, treatment interruption, and hospital discharge with more complications. We conclude that the scores could be used to indicate complications; however, further studies on combined biomarkers are necessary.

Is vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphism associated with head and neck cancer risk? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Head and neck cancer encompasses neoplasms affecting the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and thyroid. Identifying factors that modulate the carcinogenesis process can aid in identifying subgroups at higher risk of developing the disease, enabling implementation of prevention programs. Vitamin D receptor polymorphisms can affect the carcinogenesis of various tumors by altering vitamin D metabolism and cellular response. METHODS: To elucidate the role of vitamin D receptor polymorphisms in head and neck cancer, a systematic review was performed, searching the Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Lilacs databases. A total of 19 articles met the inclusion criteria. The frequency of vitamin D receptors polymorphism alleles (FokI, ApaI, BsmI, TaqI, Cdx2, rs2107301, rs2238135) was recorded and pooled to calculate the odds ratio in a meta-analysis using the Review Manager software. RESULTS: Subgroup analysis demonstrated significant associations in the anatomical site of cancer (oral cancer in ApaI and BsmI, and unspecified subsites of head and neck cancer in TaqI), genotyping method (FokI and BsmI), and continent of the study (ApaI, FokI, and BsmI). CONCLUSION: Our findings were heterogeneous, as with other evidence available in the literature. Therefore, more clinical studies with larger sample sizes are needed to obtain more accurate results on the relationship between vitamin D receptor polymorphism and head and neck cancer.

Modalidades de radioterapia empregadas para o câncer de cabeça e pescoço / Radiotherapy modalities used for head and neck cancer

O câncer de cabeça e pescoço (CCP) refere-se ao grupo de tumores que atingem a laringe, cavidade nasal, nasofaringe, orofaringe, cavidade oral e glândulas salivares. A radioterapia no paciente com CCP representa uma terapia para manutenção do órgão, através da destruição das células neoplásicas malignas. O objetivo do presente estudo foi identificar estratégias radioterápicas aplicadas ao paciente com CCP e seus respectivos efeitos colaterais em cavidade oral, além de investigar as principais modalidades utilizadas nos sistemas de saúde do Brasil. Tratou-se de uma revisão narrativa da literatura com busca ativa das bases eletrônicas PUBMED, LILACS e SCIELO. Após todas as etapas de refinamento, um total de 58 artigos foram incluídos na presente revisão. A radioterapia possui papel de destaque no tratamento do CCP. No entanto, por não ser um método terapêutico com alta especificidade, resulta em efeitos adversos ao tratamento como mucosite oral, trismo e disfunção salivar, que findam por reduzir a qualidade de vida do paciente. Dentre as principais técnicas radioterapêuticas utilizadas no Brasil, a IMRT e VMAT caracterizam-se como as formas mais avançadas da terapia em 3D, proporcionando doses equivalentes para cada área da lesão tumoral, poupando áreas teciduais circunvizinhas que não necessitam de irradiação. Além da toxicidade reduzida, uma maior sobrevida pode ser observada em pacientes tratados com essas técnicas. Um dos maiores desafios atuais na radioterapia contra o CCP é a proteção de tecidos saudáveis. Nesse sentido, a IMRT e VMAT apresentam superioridade em relação às demais técnicas.

Head and neck cancer (CCP) refers to the group of tumors that affect the larynx, nasal cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, oral cavity and salivary glands. Radiotherapy in patients with CCP represents a therapy for organ maintenance, through the destruction of malignant neoplastic cells. The aim of this study was to identify radiotherapy strategies applied to patients with CCP and their respective side effects in the oral cavity, and to investigate the main modalities used in health systems in Brazil. It was a narrative review of the literature with active search of electronic databases PUBMED, LILACS and SCIELO. After all stages of refinement, a total of 58 articles were included in this review. Radiotherapy has a prominent role in the treatment of CCP. However, because it is not a therapeutic method with high specificity, it results in adverse effects to treatment such as oral mucositis, trismus and salivary dysfunction, which end up reducing the quality of life of the patient. Among the main radiotherapeutic techniques used in Brazil, IMRT and VMAT are characterized as the most advanced forms of 3D therapy, providing equivalent doses for each area of the tumor sparing surrounding tissue areas that do not require irradiation. In addition to reduced toxicity, greater survival can be observed in patients treated with these techniques. One of the biggest current challenges in radiation therapy against CCP is the protection of healthy tissues. In this sense, the IMRT and VMAT present superiority in relation to the other techniques.

Cetuximab chemotherapy resistance: Insight into the homeostatic evolution of head and neck cancer (Review).

The complex evolution of genetic alterations in cancer that occurs in vivo is a selective process involving numerous factors and mechanisms. Chemotherapeutic agents that prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells induce selective pressure, leading to rapid artificial selection of resistant subclones. This rapid evolution is possible because antineoplastic drugs promote alterations in tumor­cell metabolism, thus creating a bottleneck event. The few resistant cells that survive in this new environment obtain differential reproductive success that enables them to pass down the newly selected resistant gene pool. The present review aims to summarize key findings of tumor evolution, epithelial­mesenchymal transition and resistance to cetuximab therapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Potential Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms markers for radiation dermatitis in head and neck cancer patients: a meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To identify potential Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) of susceptibility for the development of acute radiation dermatitis in head and neck cancer patients, and also to verify the association between SNPs and the severity of RD. METHODS: This systematic review was reported according to the PRISMA guideline. The proportion meta-analysis was performed to identify the prevalence of genetic markers by geographical region and radiation dermatitis severity. The meta-analysis was performed to verify the association between genetic markers and RD severity. The certainty of the evidence was assessed by GRADE. RESULTS: Thirteen studies were included. The most prevalent SNPs were XRCC3 (rs861639) (36%), TGFß1 (rs1800469) (35%), and RAD51 (rs1801321) (34%). There are prevalence studies in Europe and Asia, with a similar prevalence for all SNPs (29-40%). The prevalence was higher in patients who developed radiation dermatitis ≤2 for any subtype of genes (75-76%). No SNP showed a statistically significant association with very low certainty of evidence. CONCLUSION: The most prevalent SNPs may be predictors of acute RD. The analysis of SNP before starting radiation therapy may be a promising method to predict the risk of developing radiation dermatitis and allow radiosensitive patients to have a customized treatment. This current review provides new research directions.

Evaluación de la experiencia de telemedicina en consulta de Cirugía de cabeza y cuello en un centro de referencia en Manizales / Evaluation of telemedicine experience in head and neck surgery consultation in a referral center in Manizales

Introducción. La infección por COVID-19 afectó drásticamente la atención en salud a nivel mundial, generando retos para la atención primaria. En orden de mitigar y manejar el contagio, la telemedicina se convirtió en una modalidad emergente y efectiva en varias especialidades médicas, incluida la cirugía de cabeza y cuello. Métodos. Estudio de corte transversal con análisis retrospectivo de pacientes atendidos en la consulta virtual durante 18 meses. Se estimaron frecuencias absolutas y relativas, y bivariado con regresión logística binaria. Se incluyeron las variables de diagnóstico primario, poder resolutivo de la consulta, necesidad de cita presencial, plataforma y dificultades de la misma. Resultados. Se incluyeron 2485 pacientes provenientes de 11 departamentos. La patología tiroidea fue la más frecuente (62,9 %), seguida de la aerodigestiva (10,9 %). La consulta fue eficiente en el 99 % de los casos, con una capacidad resolutiva del 96,4 %. El 1,4 % tuvo dificultades en la plataforma y el 8,3 % de los pacientes requirió cita presencial. Cuando hubo dificultad para la revisión de exámenes o una inadecuada inspección funcional, fue 30 veces más probable no poder resolver eficientemente la consulta. Conclusión. La telemedicina provee una alternativa eficiente de atención en cirugía de cabeza y cuello, especialmente en los controles de patología tiroidea, evitando desplazamientos innecesarios. En el tracto aerodigestivo, donde el examen físico es primordial, su utilidad está limitada a la posibilidad de realizar un examen endoscópico posterior que permita una adecuada estadificación y facilite la valoración presencial.

Introduction. The COVID-19 infection drastically affected health care worldwide, creating challenges for primary care. In order to mitigate and manage infection, telemedicine has become an emerging and effective modality in several medical specialties, including head and neck surgery. Methods. Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of patients seen in virtual consultation over 18 months. Absolute and relative frequencies were estimated, univariate analysis was done with chi-square, and bivariate analysis with binary logistic regression. Variables such as primary diagnosis, the resolution power of the consultation, the need for an in-person appointment, the platform, and its difficulties were included. Results. 2485 patients from 11 departments were included. Thyroid pathology was the most frequent (62.9%), followed by aerodigestive tract pathology (10.8%). The consultation was efficient in 99% of cases, with a resolution capacity of 96.4%. 1.4% had difficulties on the platform and 8.3% of patients required an in-person. When there was difficulty in reviewing exams or an inadequate functional inspection, it was 30 times more likely to not be able to efficiently be resolved. Conclusion. Telemedicine provides an efficient alternative for care in head and neck surgery, especially in thyroid pathology controls, avoiding unnecessary travel. In the aerodigestive tract, where the physical examination is essential, its usefulness is limited to the possibility of performing a subsequent endoscopic examination that allows adequate staging and facilitates in-person assessment.

Electrical Stimulation for Treatment of Dysphagia Post Head Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Introduction Dysphagia induced by radiotherapy in the head and neck region comprises a challenging scenario and sometimes difficult rehabilitation due to the severity of the adverse effects. Some resources such as electrical stimulation have emerged as an alternative to complement the therapeutic process, but there is still no consensus on its use. Objective The purpose of the present study was to evaluate, through a meta-analysis, the effect of electrical stimulation on the rehabilitation of dysphagia generated after head and neck cancer treatment. Data Synthesis Four randomized controlled trials with a total of 146 participants were included. The age of the participants was 58.37 ± 1.8 years old and there was a predominance of males. The time to start the intervention ranged from 50.96 ± 40.12 months after cancer treatment. The intervention showed great heterogeneity regarding the positioning of the electrodes, parameters, duration of the stimulus, number of sessions, and intensity. No difference was identified in the following aspects: oral transit time, hyoid elevation, penetration and/or aspiration after electrostimulation. The quality of the evidence ranged from very low to moderate and high risk of bias. Conclusion In this meta-analysis, we found weak evidence for small and moderate swallowing benefits in patients after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer in short-term clinical trials.

The impact of colonialism on head and neck cancer in Brazil: a historical essay focussing on tobacco, alcohol and slavery.

Colonialism's enduring impact on Brazil has had significant implications for health and oncology outcomes. This historical essay delves into the profound changes brought about by the transatlantic slave trade from Africa to the Americas, particularly in terms of its influence on the economy, sociocultural habits, and health outcomes. This essay explores the enduring connections between the colonial period's operational dynamics in Brazil and the current epidemiological panorama of head and neck cancer (HNC). The examination provides original insights on the role of tobacco and alcohol production and consumption, alongside the investigation of structural racism, which contributes to disparities in access to diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for patients with HNC. This article presents novel visions and an analysis of evidence-based strategies to disrupt the adverse impact of colonialism's legacy on the epidemiology of HNC in Brazil.

Tumor de cuerpo carotídeo en adolescente. Reporte de un caso / Carotid body tumor in an adolescent. A case report

Introducción. Los paragangliomas del cuerpo carotídeo son neoplasias infrecuentes y representan el 0,6 % de los tumores de cabeza y cuello. La edad de presentación promedio es la quinta década de vida. El objetivo de este artículo fue describir un caso de paraganglioma del cuerpo carotídeo en una adolescente. Caso clínico. Se presenta el caso de una paciente adolescente con paraganglioma de cuerpo carotídeo derecho, de 5x3x3 cm, Shamblin III. Se analizaron la historia clínica, los exámenes diagnósticos, la técnica quirúrgica utilizada y su evolución correspondiente. La información fue obtenida a partir de la ficha clínica, previa autorización por consentimiento de los padres de la paciente. Resultados. Se hizo resección quirúrgica completa y reparo vascular con injerto de vena safena invertida, con evolución favorable y permeabilidad completa del puente vascular, sin secuelas. Conclusión. Este caso podía corresponder a un tumor de etiología familiar, dada su edad temprana de presentación. Se hizo necesario complementar su estudio con imágenes y objetivar el compromiso vascular asociado para la planificación quirúrgica. En estos pacientes, la complejidad de su localización y el compromiso vascular del tumor requiere de un equipo multidisciplinario, con cirujanos de cabeza y cuello y cirujanos vasculares para un resultado exitoso.

Introduction. Carotid body paragangliomas are rare, representing 0.6% of head and neck tumors, with average age of presentation in the fifth decade of life. The objective of this article is to describe a clinical case of carotid body paraganglioma in an adolescent. Clinical case. Review and analysis of the clinical case, reviewing its clinical history, study tests, surgical technique used and its corresponding evolution. Information obtained from the clinical record prior authorization by consent of the patient's parents. Results. Adolescent patient with paraganglioma of the right carotid body, 5x3x3 cm, Shamblin III. With complete surgical resection and inverted saphenous vein graft, favorable evolution, with complete permeability of the vascular bridge, without sequelae. Conclusion. This case could correspond to a tumor of familiar etiology, given its early age of presentation. It is necessary to complement the study with images and to objectively determine the associated vascular involvement for surgical planning. In these patients, the complexity of their location and vascular involvement of the tumor requires a multidisciplinary team with head and neck and vascular surgeons for a successful outcome.

Tratamiento quirúrgico del carcinoma de Merkel facial avanzado. Presentación de un caso / Surgical treatment of advanced facial Merkel cell carcinoma. A case report

Introducción. El carcinoma de Merkel es un tumor maligno poco frecuente, que afecta principalmente a la población caucásica y cuya etiología guarda relación con el poliomavirus de las células de Merkel. Conlleva mal pronóstico, especialmente en estadios finales. Caso clínico. Se expone el caso de una paciente que presentaba un tumor primario facial de grandes dimensiones, con avanzado grado de extensión, afectación linfática cervical y metástasis parotídea derecha. Fue tratada mediante exéresis de la lesión primaria y cobertura con injerto de piel parcial, linfadenectomía cervical y parotidectomía ipsilateral. Resultados. Se logró mejoría importante en la calidad de vida de la paciente y sobrevida de al menos seis meses. Conclusión. Aunque no está claro el manejo óptimo del carcinoma de Merkel avanzado debido a su mal pronóstico, la cirugía favorece una mejoría en la calidad de vida del paciente y puede tener un papel clave en el manejo del carcinoma de Merkel en los estadios avanzados.

Introduction. Merkel carcinoma is a rare malignant tumor that mainly affects the Caucasian population and whose etiology is related to the Merkel cell polyomavirus. It has a poor prognosis, especially in the final stages. Clinical case. The case of a patient who presented a large primary facial tumor, with an advanced degree of extension, cervical lymphatic involvement and right parotid metastasis is described. She was treated surgically by excision of the primary lesion and coverage with partial skin graft, cervical lymphadenectomy, and ipsilateral parotidectomy. Results. A significant improvement was achieved in the patient's quality of life and survival of at least six months.Conclusion. Although the optimal management of advanced Merkel carcinoma is unclear due to its poor prognosis, surgery improves the patient's quality of life and it can play a key role in the management of Merkel carcinoma in advanced stages.

Malignant tumors affecting the head and neck region in ancient times: Comprehensive study of the CRAB Database

Abstract In the modern world, cancer is a growing cause of mortality, but archeological studies have shown that it is not exclusive to modern populations. The aim of this study is to examine the epidemiologic, social, and clinicopathologic features of head and neck cancers in ancient populations. To do this, we extracted all records that described malignant lesions in the head and neck region available in the Cancer Research in Ancient Bodies Database (CRAB). The estimated age, sex, physical condition of the remains (skeletonized, mummified), anatomic location of tumors, geographic location, chronology, tumor type, and methods of tumor diagnosis were collected. One hundred and sixty-seven cases were found, mostly originating from Europe (51.5%). Most records were of adults between 35 and 49 years of age (37.7%). The most involved site was the skullcap (60.4%), and the most common malignancies were metastases to the bone (65.3%) and multiple myeloma (17.4%). No primary soft tissue malignancies were registered. The results of our study indicate that head and neck cancers were present in ancient civilizations, at least since 500,000 BCE. The available data can help to improve the current understanding of the global distribution of head and neck cancer and its multidimensional impacts on populations in the contemporary world.

Hematopoietic colony-stimulating factors in head and neck cancers: Recent advances and therapeutic challenges.

Colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) are key cytokines responsible for the production, maturation, and mobilization of the granulocytic and macrophage lineages from the bone marrow, which have been gaining attention for playing pro- and/or anti-tumorigenic roles in cancer. Head and neck cancers (HNCs) represent a group of heterogeneous neoplasms with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Treatment for HNCs is still limited even with the advancements in cancer immunotherapy. Novel treatments for patients with recurrent and metastatic HNCs are urgently needed. This article provides an in-depth review of the role of hematopoietic cytokines such as granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), and interleukin-3 (IL-3; also known as multi-CSF) in the HNCs tumor microenvironment. We have reviewed current results from clinical trials using CSFs as adjuvant therapy to treat HNCs patients, and also clinical findings reported to date on the therapeutic application of CSFs toxicities arising from chemoradiotherapy.

Estudo multicêntrico das neoplasias malignas de boca em pacientes pediátricos e adolescentes / Multicentric study of head and neck neoplasms in pediatric and adolescent patients

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever as características clínicas, demográficas e histopatológicas e de distribuição das neoplasias malignas de boca em pacientes pediátricos e adolescentes de diversos centros de diagnóstico. Foi realizado um levantamento de dados em prontuários clínicos de pacientes com idade menor ou igual a 19 anos portadores de neoplasias malignas de boca diagnosticados no ICT/SJC, Departamento de Patologia Bucal (UFPb), Fundação Centro de Controle de Oncologia do Estado do Amazonas (FCecon-Am) e Departamento de Patologia e Diagnóstico Oral (UFRJ). Esta coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de uma análise retrospectiva dos prontuários médicos dos pacientes atendidos em um período de 30 anos (1986-2016). No período de 30 anos, 37 neoplasias malignas em boca foram diagnosticadas em 4 diferentes centros no Brasil. A média de idade dos pacientes no momento do diagnóstico foi de 12,2 anos, sendo o sexo feminino e a raça branca os mais acometidos. No geral, os sarcomas foram os mais frequentes (37,9%), seguido dos linfomas (27%). A mandíbula foi a região mais acometida (37,8%), seguido da maxila (32,4%), totalizando mais de 70% dos casos (AU)

The objective of this study was to describe the clinical, demographic and histopathological characteristics and distribution of oral malignant neoplasms in pediatric and adolescent patients from different diagnostic centers. A data collection was carried out in clinical records of patients aged less than or equal to 19 years with malignant neoplasms of the mouth diagnosed at the ICT/SJC, Department of Oral Pathology (UFPb), Fundação Centro de Controle de Oncologia do Estado do Amazonas (FCecon-Am) and Department of Oral Pathology and Diagnosis (UFRJ). This data collection was carried out through a retrospective analysis of the medical records of patients treated over a period of 30 years (1986-2016). Over a 30-year period, 37 malignant neoplasms in the mouth were diagnosed in 4 different centers in Brazil. The average age of patients at the time of diagnosis was 12.2 years, with females and white people being the most affected. Overall, sarcomas were the most common (37.9%), followed by lymphomas (27%). The mandible was the most affected region (37.8%), followed by the maxilla (32.4%), totaling more than 70% of cases (AU)

Supervivencia y seguimiento de pacientes sometidos a cirugía parcial de laringe

Introducción: El cáncer de cabeza y cuello constituye el 3,8 % de las neoplasias malignas y 2,3 % de las muertes por cáncer; más frecuente entre la sexta y séptima década de la vida. El cáncer laríngeo es el tumor maligno no cutáneo más común (30-40 %) entre los tumores de cabeza y cuello y segundo cáncer más frecuente del aparato respiratorio; razón hombre/mujer de hasta 10:1, reducida con el incremento del tabaquismo en la mujer. La laringectomía parcial y la radioterapia son métodos terapéuticos efectivos en el tratamiento de pacientes con cáncer laríngeo precoz, comparables en tasas de supervivenciay conservación de la laríngea. Objetivo: Evaluar la supervivencia y seguimiento de pacientes que recibieron como tratamiento de elección por persistencia tumoral o recidiva cirugía parcial de laringe en dos hospitales de la provincia Camagüey. Métodos: El universo lo conformaron los pacientes con cáncer laríngeo que acudieron a las consultas y la muestra a criterio de los autores la integraron 70 pacientes que recibieron tratamiento quirúrgico. Se consideraron como variables: edad, sexo, localización topográfica del tumor, técnica quirúrgica parcial realizada y tiempo desupervivencia de los pacientes. Resultados: En la muestra estudiada el 100 % de los pacientes pertenecían al sexo masculino, entre 51 y 60 años de edad y con carcinomas en localización glótica-supraglótica. La técnica quirúrgica más utilizada fue la laringectomía subtotal con cricohioidopexia sin epigotoplastia. Durante la recolección de la información en consulta para el seguimiento de los enfermos, la mayoría se encontraban vivos. Conclusiones: Los pacientes tratados fueron del sexo masculino, quinta y sexta décadas de la vida. Predominó la localización topográfica glótica-supraglótica y la técnica quirúrgica realizada con mayor frecuencia la laringectomía subtotal con cricohioidopexia sin epigotoplastia. Al culminar el estudio la mayor parte de los pacientes de ambos grupos mostraronn buena calidad vida e integración social.

Introduction: Head and neck cancer constitutes 3.8% of malignant neoplasms and 2.3% of cancer deaths; most common between the sixth and seventh decade of life. Laryngeal cancer is the most common non-cutaneous malignant tumor (30-40%) among head and neck tumors and the second most common cancer of the respiratory system; shows a male/female ratio of up to 10:1, which has reduced with the increase in smoking in women. Partial laryngectomy and radiotherapy are effective therapeutic methods in the treatment of patients with early laryngeal cancer, comparable in survival rates and laryngeal preservation. Objective: To evaluate the survival and follow-up of patients who received partial laryngeal surgery as the treatment of choice for tumor persistence or recurrence in two hospitals in the province of Camagüey, Cuba. Methods: The universe was made up of patients with laryngeal cancer who attended the consultations and the sample at the authors' discretion was made up of 70 patients who received surgical treatment. The following variables were considered: age, sex, topographic location of the tumor, partial surgical technique performed and survival time of the patients. Results: In the sample studied, 100% of the patients were male, between 51 and 60 years of age and with carcinomas in a glottic - supraglottic location. The most used surgical technique was subtotal laryngectomy with cricohyoidopexy without epigotoplasty. During the collection of information in consultation for the follow-up of the patients, the majority were alive. Conclusions: The treated patients were male, fifth and sixth decades of life. Glottic-supraglottic topographic location predominated and the most frequently performed surgical technique was subtotal laryngectomy with cricohyoidopexy without epigotoplasty. At the end of the study, most of the patients in both groups showed good quality of life and social integration.

Electrical Stimulation for Treatment of Dysphagia Post Head Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Introduction Dysphagia induced by radiotherapy in the head and neck region comprises a challenging scenario and sometimes difficult rehabilitation due to the severity of the adverse effects. Some resources such as electrical stimulation have emerged as an alternative to complement the therapeutic process, but there is still no consensus on its use. Objective The purpose of the present study was to evaluate, through a meta-analysis, the effect of electrical stimulation on the rehabilitation of dysphagia generated after head and neck cancer treatment. Data Synthesis Four randomized controlled trials with a total of 146 participants were included. The age of the participants was 58.37 ± 1.8 years old and there was a predominance of males. The time to start the intervention ranged from 50.96 ± 40.12 months after cancer treatment. The intervention showed great heterogeneity regarding the positioning of the electrodes, parameters, duration of the stimulus, number of sessions, and intensity. No difference was identified in the following aspects: oral transit time, hyoid elevation, penetration and/or aspiration after electrostimulation. The quality of the evidence ranged from very low to moderate and high risk of bias. Conclusion In this meta-analysis, we found weak evidence for small and moderate swallowing benefits in patients after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer in short-term clinical trials.

A experiência de pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço quanto ao autocuidado com a radiodermite / The experience of patients with head and neck cancer regarding self-care for radiodermatitis / Experiencia de pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello sobre el autocuidado de la radiodermitis

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a experiência de pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço quanto ao autocuidado com a radiodermite associado aos fatores sociodemográficos e clínico-patológicos. Método: Estudo descritivo com abordagem qualitativa, desenvolvido em um Centro de Referência de Alta Complexidade em Oncologia em Belém - Pará - Brasil. Realizado com entrevistas e análise de prontuário. Os dados foram coletados de fevereiro a abril de 2022, e tratados por análise de conteúdo de Bardin subsidiada pelo software IRAMUTEQ. Resultados: Emergiram três subcategorias: importância do conhecimento do paciente quanto a radioterapia; identificação dos efeitos adversos relacionados ao tratamento; e, orientação do enfermeiro quanto ao autocuidado. Considerações Finais: O conhecimento dos pacientes foi incipiente sobre o tratamento, efeitos adversos foram identificados pelo impacto negativo em sua autoestima e autoimagem e a orientação do autocuidado foi efetiva com a reprodução do cuidado. O estudo oportuniza a elaboração de estratégia de ensino adequada em pesquisas futuras.

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the experience of patients with head and neck cancer regarding self-care for radiodermatitis associated with sociodemographic and clinical-pathological factors. Method: A descriptive study with a qualitative approach, carried out at a High Complexity Oncology Reference Center in Belém - Pará - Brazil. It was conducted through interviews and analysis of medical records. The data were collected from February to April 2022 and processed using Bardin's content analysis supported by the IRAMUTEQ software. Results: Three subcategories emerged: The importance of the patient's knowledge about radiotherapy; Identification of adverse effects related to the treatment; and Nurses' guidance on self-care. Final Considerations: The patients' knowledge about the treatment was incipient, adverse effects were identified by the negative impact on their self-esteem and self-image, and self-care guidance was effective in reproducing care. The study provides an opportunity to develop an appropriate teaching strategy in future research.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar la experiencia de pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello sobre el autocuidado de la radiodermatitis asociado a factores sociodemográficos y clínico-patológicos. Método: Estudio descriptivo con enfoque cualitativo, desarrollado en un Centro de Referencia de Alta Complejidad en Oncología en Belém, Pará, Brasil. Realizado por medio de entrevistas y análisis de historias clínicas. Los datos se recopilaron de febrero a abril de 2022 y se procesaron mediante análisis de contenido de Bardin con ayuda del software IRAMUTEQ. Resultados: Surgieron tres subcategorías: importancia del conocimiento del paciente sobre radioterapia; identificación de los efectos adversos relacionados con el tratamiento; y orientación del enfermero sobre el autocuidado. Consideraciones finales: El conocimiento de los pacientes sobre el tratamiento era incipiente, ellos identificaron los efectos adversos debido al impacto negativo en su autoestima y autoimagen y la orientación de autocuidado fue efectiva dado que lograron reproducir el cuidado. El estudio contribuye a que se desarrollen estrategias de enseñanza adecuada en futuras investigaciones.

Validation of a speech therapy guidelines booklet for dysphagic cancer patients / Validação de cartilha de orientações fonoaudiológicas para pacientes oncológicos disfágicos

ABSTRACT Purpose: to validate the content and appearance of a booklet of speech therapy guidelines on dysphagia for adult oncology patients presented with dysphagia. Methods: a methodological study with a mixed approach, developed for the validation of a guidebook. The validation of the guidebook was made by five expert judges and eleven non-specialist ones. For validation, the Content Validity Index was used: CVI for each item, as well as for the general items. Results: the expert judges assigned the Content Validity Index value above 80% and of 92.20%, and the non-specialist judges attributed values above 90.9% and of 98.0%, which were considered excellent. Conclusion: the proposed guidebook was validated according to content and appearance. It is believed that this material can contribute to the understanding of the health-disease process, promote self-care and arouse the interest of other health professionals in the development of educational technologies in search of better health conditions for the target population.

RESUMO Objetivo: validar conteúdo e aparência de uma cartilha de orientações fonoaudiológicas sobre disfagia para pacientes adultos oncológicos disfágicos. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo metodológico de abordagem mista, desenvolvido para a validação de uma cartilha de orientações. A validação da cartilha, quanto ao conteúdo, foi feita por cinco juízes especialistas e, quanto à aparência, por onze juízes não especialistas. Para a validação utilizou-se o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo para cada item, bem como para todos os itens juntos. Resultados: os juízes especialistas atribuíram valor acima de 80% e de 92,20% para a escala geral de análise. E os juízes não especialistas atribuíram valores acima de 90,9% e de 98,0%, também para a escala geral, sendo considerados excelentes. Conclusão: a cartilha de orientações proposta foi validada segundo conteúdo e aparência. Acredita-se que o referido material possa contribuir para a compreensão do processo saúde-doença, promover o autocuidado e despertar o interesse de outros profissionais da área da saúde para o desenvolvimento de tecnologias educativas em busca de melhores condições de saúde para a população destinada.