Intranasal Corticosteroid Spray for Preventing Otitis Media With Effusion After Radiotherapy in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

This study focuses on a common side effect experienced by many patients after radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal cancer, which is a type of head and neck cancer. This side effect is called secretory otitis media (fluid buildup in the middle ear). It can cause a feeling of fullness in the ear and hearing loss. While procedures like ear tube placement can help, they can also lead to other problems like ear infections and drainage.

Radiation treatment is thought to cause inflammation that disrupts the normal function of the tube connecting the ear to the throat (Eustachian tube), leading to this fluid buildup. A nasal spray containing a steroid medicine (triamcinolone acetonide) is already known to be safe and effective at reducing inflammation in the ear fluid of both children and adults. We believe that using this spray may also help prevent and improve this condition in nasopharyngeal cancer patients after radiation therapy.

The main goal of this study is to explore whether this nasal spray can effectively prevent or reduce fluid buildup in the ear following radiation therapy. We hope this non-invasive treatment will provide a new option to improve the quality of life for these patients.