Understanding metal elements in radiation-induced mouth sores

Correlation and Predictive Study of Metal Elements in Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis: A Prospective, Longitudinal Cohort Study

Observational Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University · NCT06968520

This study is trying to see if certain metal elements in the body can help predict how severe mouth sores will be for patients getting radiation treatment for head and neck cancer.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment383 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorNanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Guangzhou, Guangdong)
Trial IDNCT06968520 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the correlation between metal elements and the occurrence of radiation-induced oral mucositis (RIOM) in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck tumors. It aims to identify predictive factors that could help in anticipating the severity and incidence of RIOM, which significantly impacts patients' quality of life and treatment efficacy. By analyzing the steady-state of metallic elements in patients, the study seeks to explore effective prevention and treatment strategies for this common complication of radiotherapy. The findings could lead to improved management of RIOM and better overall outcomes for patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-75 with confirmed head and neck tumors who are scheduled to receive radiotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications for radiotherapy or those with serious concurrent diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better prediction and management of oral mucositis, enhancing the quality of life for patients undergoing treatment for head and neck tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a potential link between metal elements and mucositis, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights, although it remains a relatively novel area of investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1)Sign the informed consent form; 2) Confirmed by pathological biopsy as nasopharyngeal carcinoma or head and neck tumors; 3) Have indications for radiotherapy and voluntarily accept radiotherapy; 4) ECOG PS: 0/1; 5) Age: 18-75 years old; 6) Laboratory tests confirm good organ function.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. There are contraindications for radiotherapy;
2. Combined with other tumors;
3. Pathological sections could not be obtained;
4. The patient has any serious concurrent diseases that may pose unacceptable risks or have a negative impact on trial compliance. For instance, unstable heart diseases requiring treatment, chronic hepatitis, kidney diseases with poor conditions, uncontrolled diabetes (fasting blood glucose greater than 1.5 × ULN), and mental disorders;
5. The researcher judged that it was not suitable to participate in this study.

Where this trial is running

Guangzhou, Guangdong

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.
Conditions Head and Neck TumorsMetalCopperRadiotherapy-Induced Oral Mucositis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.