ORAL MUCOSITIS INDUCED BY CANCER TREATMENT: INTERDISCIPLINARY STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63330/aurumpub.040-003Keywords:
Oral mucositis, Antineoplastic therapy, Interdisciplinary management, Photobiomodulation, Supportive care in oncologyAbstract
Oral mucositis induced by cancer treatment is one of the most frequent and debilitating complications associated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. It is characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the oral mucosa, resulting in intense pain, difficulty eating, an increased risk of secondary infections, and a negative impact on adherence to and continuity of antineoplastic treatment. The pathophysiology involves direct epithelial damage, activation of inflammatory pathways, and amplification of the tissue response, culminating in loss of oral mucosal integrity. High-impact scientific evidence supports preventive and therapeutic strategies such as rigorous oral hygiene, oral cryotherapy for short-lived chemotherapeutic agents, the use of benzydamine in head and neck radiotherapy, laser photobiomodulation in specific scenarios, and the selective use of palifermin in myeloablative regimens. The management of established oral mucositis requires a multimodal approach, including adequate pain control, early nutritional support, and prevention of infectious complications. In this context, the implementation of standardized institutional protocols, based on international guidelines and adapted to the reality of health services, is essential. The integrated work of interdisciplinary teams contributes to early interventions, improved clinical outcomes, and preservation of the quality of life of cancer patients.
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