Narrative review of the management of oral mucositis during chemoradiation for head and neck cancer.

ABSTRACT: Oral mucositis (OM) can be a significant problem for patients undergoing radiation or chemoradiation for head and neck cancer. In modern clinical trials, grade 3-4 OM can be seen in over 40% of patients and can cause a significant impact on their quality of life (QOL). Despite this fact, strategies for the prevention and treatment of OM vary widely, with options including both lifestyle modifications and pharmaceuticals. Here we evaluate and summarize the current clinical interventions for the management of radiation-induced OM. The majority of the current evidence focuses on reducing OM related pain. These agents are detailed over multiple clinical trials including treatment modalities such as: GC4419, doxepin mouthwash, diphenhydramine-lidocaine-antacid (DLA) mouthwash, gabapentin, and m

SUBMITTER: Judge LF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8184418 | biostudies-literature | 2021 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature