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Method of Warnke et al to Manage a Foul-Smelling Malignant Ulcer

Description

Warnke et al developed a protocol for treating patients with ulcerated malignant tumors that release a foul stench. The use of oral clindamycin and the topical application of a mixture of essential oils can significantly reduce the morbidity. The authors are from the University of Kiel (Germany), University of Sydney (Australia), and the Australian National University in Canberra, Australia.


 

A primary cause of the malodor is bacterial overgrowth of necrotic tumor, especially by anaerobic bacteria that generate volatile organic compounds.

 

A tumor involving the head and neck may communicate with the oral cavity through a fistulous tract, which provides a source of anaerobic bacteria. Wounds in other sites may have fistulas to abscesses or necrotic tumors.

 

A mixture of essential oils is used to rinse the ulcerated lesions. It is prepared from:

(1) eucalyptus oil

(2) tea tree oil

(3) grapefruit oil

 

Benefits of the essential oils:

(1) pleasant smelling

(2) antibacterial activity

(3) pain relief

(4) ulcer healing

 

Protocol:

(1) Rinse the ulcers with 5 mL of the oil mixture twice a day, which can be applied with a spray bottle.

(2) clindamycin 600 mg po bid

(3) chlorophyll 60 mg po bid

 


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