Use of pentoxifylline and tocopherol in radiation-induced fibrosis and fibroatrophy

Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2017 Apr;55(3):235-241. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2016.11.323. Epub 2016 Dec 24.

Abstract

Radiation-induced fibrosis in the head and neck is a well-established pathophysiological process after radiotherapy. Recently pentoxifylline and tocopherol have been proposed as treatments to combat the late complications of radiation-induced fibrosis and a way of dealing with osteoradionecrosis. They both have a long history in the management of radiation-induced fibrosis at other anatomical sites. In this paper we review their use in sites other than the head and neck to illustrate the potential benefit that they offer to our patients.

Keywords: Radiation-induced fibrosis; pentoxifylline; tocopherol.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Atrophy / drug therapy
  • Atrophy / etiology
  • Fibrosis / drug therapy
  • Fibrosis / etiology
  • Humans
  • Pentoxifylline / therapeutic use*
  • Radiation Injuries / drug therapy*
  • Radiation Injuries / pathology*
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects
  • Tocopherols / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Tocopherols
  • Pentoxifylline