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Galera - Reducing Oral Mucositis
Radiation Therapy-Induced Oral Mucositis: Oral mucositis (OM) is a common and debilitating toxicity for patients being treated with radiation therapy for head and neck cancers (HNC). OM consists of redness (erythema), swelling, sores (ulcers) and breakdown of the oral mucosa, or lining of the oral cavity. OM causes substantial pain and can interfere with the patient’s ability to eat and/or drink.1 Approximately 60-70% of patients with HNC receiving cisplatin and radiation therapy develop Severe Oral Mucositis (SOM) (Grade 3 or Grade 4 OM).
Radiation therapy-induced OM develops and worsens over time. Patients may experience a sore or burning in their mouth after a week of treatment. Ulceration and more severe, opioid-requiring pain usually develops within the first few weeks of therapy and typically extends over subsequent weeks. OM typically begins to improve 2-4 weeks after the completion of radiation therapy but the final phase of healing may take several months.2
All patients being treated with radiation therapy for head and neck cancer are at risk of experiencing oral mucositis. Oral mucositis can be very painful and can significantly affect nutritional intake, mouth care, and quality of life.3
Until more research is available, pain relief, dietary support, and secondary infection prevention are key elements for management of oral mucositis.5
