Evaluating the additive effect of Persica and chlorhexidine mouthwashes on oral health status of children receiving chemotherapy for their hematomalignancy: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND: No definitive protocol has been introduced for treatment or prevention of chemotherapy induced mucositis. The aim of this study was to assess the additive effect of Persica and chlorhexidine on chemotherapy induced mucositis of children with hematomalignancies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This randomized clinical trial was performed on 44 children aged 6 to 12 years who were under a similar maintenance chemotherapy protocol for their hematomalignancies. The clinician instructed oral hygiene cares to the patients and their parents and the severity of the mucositis and oral health status of patients were evaluated according to Oral Assessment Guide index. Then, the patients were randomly assigned to one of two experimental groups and were instructed to rinse either with Persica oral drops or normal saline, twice a day for two weeks. Subsequently, the patients in both groups were educated to rinse with chlorhexidine for 30 seconds and avoid eating for an hour. Second and third oral examinations were performed on the 8th and 15th day using the same questionnaire. RESULTS: Comparing severity of mucositis and oral health status of patients did not show any significant difference between treatment groups in either of examination sessions (p>0.05). However, both treatment groups showed statistically significant oral health improvement, in terms of mucositis, plaque accumulation and gingival condition, in 14 days following mouthrinses administration (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Both mouth-rinse combinations were effective on mucositis, plaque and gingival status of children receiving chemotherapy. However, Persica does not seem to pose additional effect on chlorhexidine in decreasing severity of chemotherapy induced mucositis. Key words:Mucositis, chemotherapy, children, chlorhexidine, Persica.