Current management of oral cancer. A multidisciplinary approach.
BACKGROUND
Recent basic science discoveries have contributed to our understanding of the etiology of oral cancer and allowed us to consider innovative approaches to therapy.


METHODS
The authors evaluated and summarized current approaches to the management of oral cancer, emphasizing the multidisciplinary team approach to coordinate surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Current concepts in management, including complications of therapy, are described.


RESULTS
State-of-the-art surgical techniques can spare patients with oral cancer from much of the morbidity and complications common in the past. The refinement of treatment strategies reduces complications and improves efficacy. Many exciting new clinical trials in the areas of gene therapy and immunomodulation are showing promise.


CONCLUSIONS
Management of oral cancer has undergone radical change in the past 10 years and continues to evolve rapidly. Discoveries in molecular biology, diagnosis, surgery, radiation therapy and medical oncology have altered many traditional concepts and practices.


CONCLUSIONS
General dental practitioners need to understand current treatment modalities for oral and pharyngeal cancers to determine to whom they should refer patients for the most appropriate treatment, and to make recommendations regarding complications associated with these cancers.
Ord
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RA
Department of Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery, Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, 419 W. Redwood St., Suite 410, Baltimore, Md. 21201-1751, USA. rord@umm.edu
Blanchaert
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RH
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy; D017024:Chemotherapy, Adjuvant; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003190:Comprehensive Dental Care; D015316:Genetic Therapy; D006801:Humans; D007167:Immunotherapy; D009062:Mouth Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D020360:Neoadjuvant Therapy; D010348:Patient Care Team; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D018714:Radiotherapy, Adjuvant; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic