Kang, H.C., Ahn, S.D., Choi, D.H., Kang, M.K., Chung, W.K., & Wu, H.G. (2014). The safety and efficacy of EGF-based cream for the prevention of radiotherapy-induced skin injury: Results from a multicenter observational study. Radiation Oncology Journal, 32, 156–162.
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topically applied recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) for the prevention of radiation-induced dermatitis in patients with cancer
EasyDew CR cream (0.005% rhEGF, ceramide, hyaluronic acid, Inca omega oil, portulaca oleracea extract, mango butter, and meadowfoam oil) was applied to the radiation portal skin twice per day from day 1 to the last day of radiation treatment (RT). Patients were advised to wash the cream off prior to RT. No other prophylactic creams or lotions were allowed, and additional applications were ceased if an adverse reaction occurred because of the rhEGF-based cream. Compliance in applying the cream was evaluated weekly by the treating radiation oncologist.
Multi-site, prospective, observational study of the efficacy and safety of rhEGF cream to prevent radiodermatitis (in patients receiving more than 50 Gy of external radiotherapy)
This study showed that the intervention used was not associated with any severe adverse reactions, but it provides no real evidence regarding the efficacy of the rhEGF cream.
Additional studies of this cream are needed before considering the use of this cream in practice. The authors addressed pruritus and radiation toxicity as being potential adverse events; however, they do not stress the importance. Pruritus has been demonstrated to negatively impact quality of life.