Oral complications from cancer therapy: Part 1--Pathophysiology and secondary complications.
OBJECTIVE
To review the pathophysiology of oral complications from cancer therapy and potential secondary complications.


METHODS
Published articles, books, and monographs.


RESULTS
Cancer, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy disturb the normal integrity and function of the oral cavity. This leads to ulcerations, bone changes, bleeding, infection, salivary gland dysfunction, and dental diseases. Secondary complications occur as consequences of existing oral complications and often result in life-threatening situations.


CONCLUSIONS
Coordinating the efforts of nursing, medicine, and dentistry is critical to the prevention, management, and resolution of oral complications. Continued research is needed.


CONCLUSIONS
Understanding the pathophysiology of oral complications from cancer therapy enables nurses to identify significant changes and implement appropriate measures to prevent complications. By identifying patients who are at risk for developing secondary complications, nurses can provide detailed instructions to these patients and their significant others to aide them in reporting changes that require prompt medical attention.
Madeya
M L
ML
Outpatient Services, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, PA, USA.
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000150:complications / Q000382:microbiology / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology; D009061:Mouth Mucosa / Q000187:drug effects / Q000528:radiation effects; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy*; D009894:Opportunistic Infections / Q000209:etiology; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents