Sheng wu yi xue gong cheng xue za zhi = Journal of biomedical engineering = Shengwu yixue gongchengxue zazhi
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Sheng Wu Yi Xue Gong Cheng Xue Za Zhi · Dec 2002
Review[Radioprotective effects on head and neck tumors of amifostine--a broad-spectrum cytoprotection].
Differentiated thyroid cancer can be effectively treated with high-dose 131I and the other head and neck cancer can also be effectively treated with extra-radiotherapy, but these treatments often result in a reduction in salivary gland function, causing xerostomia. Collectively, these effects can lead to severe secondary complications, including difficulty in speaking and swallowing, decreasing appetite even affecting nutrition and sleep. ⋯ It has been approved by FDA to be used for protecting the salivary gland from xerostomia caused by radiotherapy. It has also show protecting effects on intra-radiotherapy, but there are many problems waiting for study.