Objective To investigate the effect of modified Yangyin Qingfei decoction combined with nutritional intervention on the nutritional status and the efficacy of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients treated with radiotherapy.

Methods A total of 120 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma who received radiotherapy were randomly divided into four groups: modified Yangyin Qingfei decoction combined with nutritional intervention group (group A, n=30), modified Yangyin Qingfei decoction group (group B, n=30), intervention group (group C, n=30) and radiotherapy group (group D, n=30). All groups were observed for 11-13 weeks. (1) The biochemical indexes of four groups before, during(DT=40 Gy) and after(DT=70 Gy) radiotherapy were detected; (2) The incidence and degree of malnutrition were observed at the three time points above; (3) The therapeutic effects of four groups at the end of radiotherapy and one month after radiotherapy were evaluated.

Results (1) There were significant differences in the average levels of ALB, PAB, TRF, LC at DT=40 Gy and 70 Gy among four groups(P < 0.05); (2) There were significant differences in the incidence of malnutrition at DT=40 Gy and 70 Gy among four groups(P < 0.05); (3) There was statistical significance in disease remission rate among four groups at one month after radiotherapy(96.67% vs. 93.33% vs. 93.33% vs. 89.66%, all P < 0.01).

Conclusion Modified Yangyin Qingfei decoction combined with nutritional intervention could improve the nutritional status and biochemical indexes of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients receiving radiotherapy, and ensure the progress and efficacy of radiotherapy.