Aims
To evaluate a new skin-care product (Flamigel®) in patients receiving radiotherapy at a tertiary cancer centre located in a tropical environment.
Methods
Patients undergoing radiotherapy to head and neck (HN), skin-primary, chest wall (CW) and anal treatment sites were invited to utilise Flamigel and to complete a weekly questionnaire including the EviQ Radiation-induced dermatitis assessment tool, and perceptions/feedback. CTCAE skin toxicity routinely collected by clinicians were collated for those using Flamigel, and compared to a historical cohort (Non-Flamigel). Wound care was also collated for both cohorts, along with demographics. A total of 171 patients were included: 62 HN (32 Flamigel, 30 Non-Flamigel); 60 skin-primary (30 Flamigel, 30 Non-Flamigel); 29 CW (14 Flamigel, 15 Non-Flamigel); and 20 anal (10 Flamigel, 10 Non-Flamigel).
Results
There was significantly reduced toxicity in skin-primary patients with Flamigel (p=0.017), with maximum toxicity of G4 in HN (G4 in Flamigel, G3 in Non-Flamigel; p=0.421); G3 in skin-primary and anal (both cohorts); G2 in CW (both cohorts). Significantly less wound care occasions were required in the skin-primary Flamigel cohort (8% in Flamigel; 16% in Non-Flamigel; p=0.029).
Overall, patients reported that Flamigel effectively reduced sensation of pain and warmth. Content analysis of free-text revealed an overall positive perception (incl. ease of application and a cooling/soothing effect). Some patients reported negative experiences (e.g. tightness and stinging).
Conclusions
Overall, Flamigel was found to be a suitable skin-care option in our environment. This study provided real-world data on Flamigel in radiotherapy, and a basis to plan further research studies.