ORAL MUCOSITIS
Oral mucositis (mouth sores) is a severe adverse complication of chemotherapy & radiation treatments. OM is an inflammatory reaction of the mucous lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the bowels, which is characterized by painful ulcerations of the mouth, lips, throat & digestive tract lining. Mucositis has a very significant effect on the patient's quality of life & leads to several problems: open sore pain, inability to eat/nutritional concerns & increased risk of infection. This painful side effect can result in treatment interruption, dose reductions or even treatment discontinuation. Medical Link, Learn More >
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CHEMOTHERAPY OM
Oral mucositis is estimated to occur in 20% to 40% of patients receiving conventional chemotherapy and up to 80% of patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy. When caused by chemo, mucositis is usually due to the low white blood cell count. Medical Link, Learn More >
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Approximate Timing Following Chemo: Onset of signs - Shortly after administration | Peak - 7 to 14 days | Resolution - 14 to 21 Days
RADIATION OM
Patients receiving radiation to the head, neck, or chest areas & patients who undergo bone marrow or stem cell transplant, are even more likely to develop OM. Nearly all patients receiving fractionated radiation for head & neck cancers experience OM. When caused by radiation, OM is usually due to the necrotic & inflammatory effect of radiation energy on oral mucosa. Medical Link, Learn More >
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Approximate Timing Following Radiation: Onset of signs - 2 to 3 wks after treatment | Peak - Continuous throughout treatment | Resolution - 2 to 4 weeks after last done
