Effects of Alpha Tocopherol Againts Cispltin–Induced Ototoxicity

Abstract

Ototoxicity is a known side effect of cisplatin chemotherapy due to formation of free radicals causing death to cochlear outer hair cells, resulting in hearing loss. Alpha tocopherol has otoprotective effects towards cisplatin in animal studies. Further human studies are needed. The objective of this study is to measure hearing function to know the otoprotective effects of alpha tocopherol asgainst cisplatin. A randomized control trial was done in Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital in December 2011–February 2012 in 2 groups. Treatment group received standard cisplatin chemotherapy treatment and alpha tocopherol 400 International Unit (IU)/day since 1 day before treatment for 30 days. Control group received standard cisplatin chemotherapy treatment. Hearing evaluation was done with tympanometry, audiometry and Distortion Product Otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) before and after the first and second cycle of chemotherapy. Results showed that ototoxic incident after first cycle of chemotherapy is significantly lower in group 1 (33.3%) than group 2 (66.7%) (p=0.046, CI=95%). Ototoxic incident after second cycle of chemotherapy is significantly lower in group 1 (50%) than goup 2 (88.9%) (p=0.027, CI=95%). In conclusion, alpha tocopherol 400 IU by oral intake can prevent cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. Key words: alpha tocopherol, cisplatin, ototoxicity