Methods and compsns. for treating oral and eosophagal lesions

Abstract

The invention features methods and compositions for treating or preventing lesions of the upper alimentary canal, particularly oral aphthous or mucositis lesions. Intestinal trefoil peptides are administered in effective concentrations either alone or in combination with different therapeutic agents.

Description

field of invention The present invention provides methods and compositions for treating lesions of the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the oral cavity and esophagus. Background technique Oral mucositis refers to the destruction of mucosal epithelial tissue, resulting in oral erythema, ulceration and pain. Mucositis is often a complication following antineoplastic treatments such as cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Painful ulcerated lesions of mucositis restrict the patient's oral intake of food and fluids, leading to weight loss and dehydration. Severe mucositis can also lead to reduced efficacy or complete discontinuation of antineoplastic therapy. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy can also damage the mucosal epithelium of the distant gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and small and large intestines, resulting in pain and organ dysfunction (eg, diarrhea). Mucositis lesions can also be sites of secondary infection, se...

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