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Mucositis

Providers

Patients may experience mucositis during various forms of cancer therapy, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and bone marrow transplant. Incidence is estimated at 40% for those undergoing chemotherapy, 75% of those having bone marrow transplant and high dose chemotherapy, and 30-60% of those undergoing radiation therapy.

 

Pathophysiology

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The routine turnover of cells is impaired, resulting in cell death without replacement. Ulceration can result, and bacteria may invade due to lack of protection, resulting in inflammation.

 

Impact

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It is important to address mucositis so that patients can be comfortable. Discomfort can result in oral health choices which can cause long term harm, such as soft, carbohydrate-rich foods which increase risk of tooth decay. Unaddressed pain may lead to a desire to abandon treatment. It is therefore critical to prevent or manage if it occurs.

 

Timing

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Typically mucositis is seen 7-10 days after start, and typically ceases 2-4 weeks after.

 

Prevention

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  • Diet

  • Good plaque control

  • No smoking

  • Advise to see dentist for silicone blocks to cover metallic dental restorations

 

Management

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A variety of agents are available and have different levels of efficacy.

 

Providers often recommend “Magic Mouthwash” however it is critical to know whether what you are prescribing contains agents, including sugars, that can be detrimental to oral health.Additional agents- Benzydamine, Cryotherapy

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​For more information about mucositis and oral health, see these resources:

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You may also wish to learn about:

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DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE 

The information on the Rhode Island Cancer and Oral Health Resource Guide, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images, and other external materials are for informational purposes only. The Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island does not provide medical advice. The information on this website is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island


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The Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island, 2024. The Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Tax ID Number: 85-2361783

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The Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island does not support or endorse any commercial providers of materials or services, and therefore does not accept advertising for or links to such providers on this website.

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This program is supported in part by Cooperative Agreement Number NU58DP007118, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and awarded to the Rhode Island Department of Health. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the Rhode Island Department of Health.

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