Effect of malignant disease and treatments on oral structures.
There has been an increase in the diagnosis and treatment options for malignant diseases. In this article we provide an overview of the impact of the treatments of malignant diseases on the oral structures. Whilst some of the complications, such as oral mucositis and oral infection, are of short duration and respond once chemotherapy has been completed, other treatments have a prolonged effect. Of particular concern is the effect of bisphosphonates on bone turnover and the risk of osteonecrosis on the jaw and hormones affecting the periodontal tissues. These unwanted effects all impact upon the quality of life of many patients diagnosed with malignant disease.


CONCLUSIONS
Treatments of malignant diseases can have a profound effect on oral structures and functions. All members of the dental team need to be aware of adverse effects arising from such treatments and how they can affect oral function and quality of life.
Seymour
Robin A
RA
School of Dental Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4BW, UK.
Walton
Graham
G
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D050071:Bone Density Conservation Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004164:Diphosphonates / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D007571:Jaw Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000382:microbiology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D009894:Opportunistic Infections / Q000209:etiology; D010020:Osteonecrosis / Q000139:chemically induced; D013651:Taste Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D050071:Bone Density Conservation Agents; D004164:Diphosphonates