Using Breath Analysis to Diagnose and Predict Mouth Sores Caused by Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer Patients

What this Trial Is About

Radiotherapy-Induced Oropharyngeal Mucositis RIOM is a common and distressing side effect experienced by patients with head and neck tumors during radiotherapy. This study aims to explore the use of exhaled breathomicsspecifically analyzing volatile organic compounds VOCsto diagnose and predict RIOM. The goal is to develop a non-invasive and early detection model that could help improve symptom management and personalize treatment for affected patients. The study involves collecting breath samples from patients with confirmed head and neck tumors who are undergoing radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. These samples will be analyzed using breath detection technology to identify specific VOCs that may serve as biomarkers for RIOM. The research will focus on validating this diagnostic and predictive model throughout the treatment period. Participants will be monitored for different grades of oral mucositis caused by radiotherapy, with assessments lasting up to one year. The study will record the onset and duration of mucositis symptoms. Researchers will evaluate the breath samples alongside clinical observations to understand the relationship between VOCs and mucositis severity. This observational study does not involve treatment changes but focuses on detailed data collection and follow-up.

Breathomics in the Diagnosis and Prediction of Radiotherapy-Induced Oropharyngeal Mucositis in Head and Neck Tumors