Acupuncture techniques and acupoints used in individuals under chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment of cancer: A systematic review

Abstract Aims and Objectives To describe the main acupuncture techniques and parameters that have been used in the most varied symptoms of different types of cancer. Background Clinical evidence about the potential effectiveness of acupuncture and related therapies to control signs and symptoms associated with cancer or its treatment has been in several studies. Currently, there is already evidence of the use of acupuncture for the treatment of nausea and vomiting, fatigue, dry mouth, anxiety, depression, insomnia and pain. However, many studies lack firm rights or reproducible guidelines for treatment. Design This study performs a systematic review of clinical trials related to the topic, based on the PRISMA protocol. Thus, a search was carried out in the Scopus, Pubmed and Web of Science databases, covering studies since January 2007. Methods Structured and organised according to PICO standards, using keywords (“cancer” OR “malignant tumour” OR “chemotherapy” OR “radiotherapy”) AND (“acupuncture” OR “electroacupuncture”) AND (“pain” OR “nausea” OR “vomit” OR “fatigue” OR “xerostomia” OR “insomnia” OR “depression” OR “neuropathy”). Results After the selection and evaluation phase, 23 studies were included and analysed. Conclusion Based on this analysis, it is concluded that acupuncture is safe and there is evidence of the reduction of gastrointestinal symptoms, chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy, pain, dry mouth, fatigue, insomnia, and improvement of cognitive capacity. Relevance to clinical practice Acupuncture treatments could act by minimising the side effects of conventional treatments and reducing symptoms induced by tumours. No Patient or Public Contribution The patients had no direct involvement with the study in question.