Treatment of PSMA-255-Actinium therapy induced xerostomia in patients with prostate cancer

Introduction PSMA-255-Actinium (Prostate Specific Antigen) radioligand therapy (RLT) is a new treatment option for patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer. Small case studies have already shown promising results. However, an accumulation of PSMA in the salivary glands has been observed resulting in side effects such as xerostomia and taste disorders, which can lead to the discontinuation of therapy. The aim of this study was to describe the effect of PSMA-255-Actinium therapy on xerostomia, taste and smell function and to investigate the effect of liposomal oral sprays to alleviate the symptoms.

Methods A total number of 20 patients were enrolled. At the time before the first administered treatment (V1) and at the follow up before the second administration (V2), the subjective xerostomia with and without the use of a liposomal oral spray was determined by standardized questionnaires. In addition, taste and smell function were measured.

Results Compared to V1, subjective xerostomia increased significantly after the first administration of PSMA-255-Actinium therapy (p <0.05). Using liposomal oral spray showed an improvement in subjective xerostomia. The measured smell and taste function remained constant over the observation period.

Conclusion PSMA-255-Actinium therapy leads to a significant increase in xerostomia without significantly affecting the smell and taste function. The use of liposomal oral spray can lead to an improvement in xerostomia and thus to a higher tolerance to therapy. However, further studies with larger case numbers are needed for better statistical analysis.

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Publication History

Article published online:
10 June 2020