Oral mucositis. Review of literature

N Y State Dent J. 2010 Jan;76(1):34-8.

Abstract

The standard treatment for malignant neoplasia of the cervicofacial area is surgery in association with radio- and/or chemotherapy. These therapies can cause local and systemic complications. Mucositis is the most common dose-correlated complication to the oral cavity. It is particularly difficult to treat in patients who are already physically and psychologically exhausted by the tumoral pathology. This study illustrates, through a review of the literature, the attack rate, the pathogenesis and the clinical course of the mucositis, as well as the correct dental approach and clinical-therapeutic management of these patients, with the aim of improving the quality of their lives.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cranial Irradiation / adverse effects*
  • Cryotherapy
  • Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Low-Level Light Therapy
  • Mouthwashes / therapeutic use
  • Mucositis* / etiology
  • Mucositis* / pathology
  • Mucositis* / therapy
  • Stomatitis* / etiology
  • Stomatitis* / pathology
  • Stomatitis* / therapy

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Mouthwashes
  • Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor