Williams, M. S., Burk, M., Loprinzi, C. L., Hill, M., Schomberg, P.J., Nearhood, K., … Eggleston, W. D. (1996). Phase III double-blind evaluation of an aloe vera gel as a prophylactic agent for radiation-induced skin toxicity. International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics, 36, 345–349.
To determine if aloe vera gel can prevent the development of radiodermatitis in patients undergoing breast radiation therapy (RT).
In both studies, gels were applied twice a day starting within three days of RT initiation. Each patient received instruction on skin care. Patients were stratified by age groups: younger than 45 years, 45 to 60 years, and older than 60 years.
Two studies were reported: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial of aloe versus placebo gel and a randomized trial of aloe versus no treatment.
The study does not support the hypothesis that aloe vera gel can decrease RT-induced dermatitis.