Oral mucositis

Mucosal damage is one of the most common adverse effects of radiotherapy and of cytotoxic therapy for cancer. With prevalence between 10% and 100%, depending of the cytotoxic regimen and patient-associated variables, this morbid condition represents a significant problem in oncology. In this paper we address oral mucositis and discuss its pathobiology, risk factors, impact and management in view of the most recent evidence. Despite of clear progress and the development of clinical guidelines, what we currently have to offer to patients to manage mucositis and oropharyngeal pain is still inadequate. Expansion of the knowledge of the pathogenesis of mucositis as well as a better insight into individual risk factors will provide opportunities to improve management strategies. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.