Research progress in radiation-induced salivary gland dysfunction
10.3760/cma.j.cn113030-20241216-00478
- VernacularTitle:放射性唾液腺损伤的研究进展
- Author:
Ming FAN
1
;
Jiamin XU
;
Ye ZHANG
;
Jinbo YUE
;
Pei YANG
;
Wencheng ZHANG
;
Qifeng WANG
;
Mei FENG
Author Information
1. 四川省肿瘤医院·研究所，肿瘤精准放疗四川省重点实验室，四川省肿瘤临床医学研究中心，四川省癌症防治中心，电子科技大学附属肿瘤医院放疗科，成都 610041
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Radiotherapy;
Radiation-induced salivary gland injury;
Head and neck neoplasms;
Mechanism of injury;
Radiation dose
- From:
Chinese Journal of Radiation Oncology
2025;34(9):867-873
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
The global incidence of head and neck cancer (HNC) is rising, with over 60% of patients presenting at a locally advanced stage. Radiotherapy remains a cornerstone of HNC treatment, and advancements in modern techniques and concurrent chemotherapy have improved local control and survival rates of HNC patients. However, these benefits also bring challenges in the management of toxicities. Due to the proximity of salivary glands and tumors, especially the highly radiosensitive parotid and submandibular glands, this condition is among the most common adverse effects of radiotherapy. Radiation damages acinar cells and ducts, causing glandular atrophy, fibrosis, and reduced saliva secretion, thereby leading to xerostomia and related complications. The risk and severity of injury are associated with the radiation dose and volume affecting the glands. Prevention and management strategies emphasize precise radiotherapy planning, target optimization, and supportive care. Emerging multimodal imaging techniques offer potential for non-invasive prediction and early diagnosis and treatment of radiation-induced salivary gland injury. Future research in regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, and molecular biology aims to elucidate molecular mechanisms, such as signaling pathways and genomics, facilitating personalized strategies to mitigate radiotherapy-induced toxicities and enhance the quality of life of patients.
