Reducing bloodstream infections in pediatric stem cell transplant patients using xylitol wipes

Reduction of Bloodstream Infections From Oral Organisms in Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant: a Randomized, Multicenter, Double-blind , Placebo-controlled Study Evaluating Twice Daily Oral Xylitol

PHASE2 · Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati · NCT05579639

This study is testing if using xylitol wipes in the mouths of kids getting stem cell transplants can help prevent bloodstream infections and improve their oral health.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment419 (estimated)
Ages4 Months to 25 Years
SexAll
SponsorChildren's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations3 sites (Aurora, Colorado and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05579639 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of twice-daily intraoral xylitol wipes in reducing bloodstream infections (BSIs) caused by oral bacteria in pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either xylitol wipes or a placebo saline wipe, in addition to standard care. The study aims to assess not only the reduction of BSIs but also improvements in dental plaque, mucositis, and gingivitis. Conducted at three major children's hospitals, this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial seeks to provide a novel preventive strategy for a vulnerable patient population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are pediatric patients aged 4 months to 25 years who are admitted for an allogeneic stem cell transplant and have at least one tooth.

Not a fit: Patients with a known allergy to xylitol or grape flavoring, or those who have received prior radiation treatment for oral cancers, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of bloodstream infections in pediatric stem cell transplant patients, improving their overall health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel in the context of pediatric stem cell transplantation, similar studies have shown promise in using xylitol for oral health improvements.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Provide signed and dated informed consent and assent (when applicable) form
* Willing to comply with all study procedures and be available for the duration of the study
* Admitted and planning to undergo an allogeneic stem cell transplant (SCT) at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC), Boston Children's Hospital, or Children's Hospital of Colorado (Denver).
* Male or female, 4 months to 25 years of age at the time of SCT (Day 0)
* Have a minimum of one tooth
* Agree to avoid chewing gum and toothpaste that contains xylitol during the intervention period

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior radiation treatment for cancer of the oral cavity, head, or neck in the past 6 months per the study participant's medical record
* Cranial boost in patients receiving total body irradiation
* Known history of allergy to xylitol
* Known history of allergy to grapes or grape flavoring
* Undergoing a conditioning-free allogeneic stem cell transplant (patient does not receive any chemotherapy or radiation prior to stem cell infusion)

Where this trial is running

Aurora, Colorado and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation, bloodstream infections, oral health, xylitol, dental health, gingivitis, mucositis, plaque

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.