Alterations in the oral cavity in patients treated with head and neck radiotherapy: a bibliographic review article

• Published in: Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología Vol. 4
• Main Authors: Ludwika Wied, Alexandra, Santos Zambrano, Thainah Bruna
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.01.2024
• ISSN: 2796-9711
• DOI: 10.56294/saludcyt2024.556

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, with head and neck neoplasms ranking fifth among the most common tumors. Radiotherapy is indicated in several cases of head and neck cancer with the aim of destroying cancer cells, but as a side effect it can cause undesirable oral reactions, affecting the quality of life of these patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the most frequent oral alterations in patients with head and neck cancer submitted to radiotherapy according to the findings presented in the literature. The present study used an observational research method through an integrative bibliographic review, using Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. It was possible to conclude that there is a need for greater recognition of the participation of dental professionals in oncological multidisciplinary teams, being of fundamental importance for the management and prevention of oral alterations associated with radiotherapy. The most frequently mentioned oral alterations included mucositis, trismus, xerostomia, dysgeusia, the presence of candidiasis infection, periodontitis and loss of teeth. The radiation dose in the head and neck regions varied between 4000 - 7000 cGy, where at levels of 2000 cGy alterations in the salivary glands and hypovascularization of the tissues can be registered. With the presence of oral alterations induced by radiotherapy, the patient's speech, chewing and swallowing functions are reduced, consequently affecting eating habits, nutritional status, and the well-being of the patient