A Randomized Double-Blinded Trial of Xylitol Dental Wipes for the Prophylaxis of Bloodstream Infections From Oral Organisms in Pediatric Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Children's Oncology Group
Summary
This phase III trial compares the effect of xylitol dental wipes to dental wipes without xylitol for the reduction of bloodstream infection in children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar compound found in fruits and vegetables. Xylitol has been shown to limit the growth of bacteria in the mouth, and to reduce cavities, plaque on the teeth, and inflammation of the gums. Treatment for AML includes chemotherapy. Patients receiving chemotherapy for AML have a risk of developing bloodstream infections. Bloodstream infections can make patients very sick, can contribute to delays in treatment, and can even cause death. In AML patients, bacteria or fungus (yeast) can sometimes enter the bloodstream from the mouth. Using xylitol dental wipes may help to reduce bloodstream infections in children being treated for AML.
Description
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: I. To compare the incidence rate of bloodstream infections (BSI) (BSI per 1000 patient-days) from oral organisms over 2 cycles of chemotherapy in children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) randomized to xylitol-containing oral wipes (xylitol dental wipes) versus control wipes. SECONDARY OBJECTIVE: I. To compare the rate of BSI (BSI per 1000 patient-days) from any organism in patients randomized to xylitol dental wipes versus control wipes. EXPLORATORY OBJECTIVES: I. To compare the frequency of severe infection (defined as any infection or infestation falling under Commo…