Acupuncture for xerostomia

摘要: BACKGROUND In the authors' clinic, patients with xerostomia after radiation therapy for malignancy have been offered acupuncture as potential palliation of their symptoms since November 1999. Preliminary data revealed that many achieve relief, even refractory to pilocarpine therapy. METHODS Acupuncture technique has refined previous publication. Originally described a two-step process, single treatment eight needles is now used. Three points are treated in each ear, and one radial aspect index finger. Patients also provided sugar-free lozenge mouth further stimulate salivation. Response measured by inventory (XI). RESULTS Fifty undergone 318 treatments (median, 5; range, 2–15 treatments). Median follow-up first 224 days (range, 9–455 days). XI was 9 0–25 points). (defined improvement 10% or better over baseline values) occurred 35 (70%). Twenty-four (48%) received benefit 10 greater on XI. Duration effect 13 (26%) exceeded 3 months. CONCLUSIONS Acupuncture palliates patients. A regimen three four weekly followed monthly sessions recommended, although some lasting response without therapy. Cancer 2002;94:1151–6. © 2002 American Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.10348