title: Effects of irradiation on saliva in cancer patients.
abstract: Whole unstimulated saliva was analyzed in 15 healthy individuals and 15 patients with malignant tumors in the head and neck region before and during irradiation therapy. Flow rate, pH, electrolytes (Na, K, Ca, Mg), protein and phosphate were measured. There was a decrease in rate of flow, and pH changed towards acidity. The most significant finding was the increased sodium content. We believe that irradiation reduces the reabsorption ability of the tubuli, causing the sodium content of the saliva to increase.
mesh_terms: D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006801:Humans; D011830:Radiation Effects; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012463:Saliva / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism / Q000528:radiation effects*; D012636:Secretory Rate / Q000528:radiation effects; D012964:Sodium / Q000032:analysis; D014987:Xerostomia / Q000209:etiology
chemical_list: D012964:Sodium