Biopolymeric materials for targeted drug delivery in the therapy accompanying radiation treatment of patients with head and neck tumors

Abstract

The study highlighted major aspects of efficacy and tolerability of radiation and chemoradiation treatment in patients with head and neck tumors. A range of side effects is presented and key aspects of supportive care are discussed. Particular attention was paid to local wound healing as the main cure for mucositis and dermatitis and key factor for optimal timing of radiotherapy as well as to preserving patients’ quality of life. Possibilities for effective local drug delivery using biopolymeric nanomaterials are described. Thus, the use of biopolymeric sodium alginate as a matrix in combination with derinate allowed to achieve the required wound-healing effect. Addition of other drugs provided anti-infection, analgesic, antioxidant or radiomodifying effects. Appropriate supportive therapy in combination with a wound healing component allows to adhere to the optimal treatment duration, as our experience has convincingly demonstrated.