Expert consensus on the prevention and treatment of radiochemotherapy-induced oral mucositis
Juan Xia, Xiaoan Tao, Qinchao Hu, Wei Luo, Xiuzhen Tong, Gang Zhou, Hongmei Zhou, Hong Hua, Guoyao Tang, Tong Wu, Qianming Chen, Yuan Fan, Xiaobing Guan, Hongwei Liu, Chaosu Hu, Yongmei Zhou, Xuemin Shen, Lan Wu, Xin Zeng, Qing Liu, Renchuan Tao, Yuan He, Yang Cai, Wenmei Wang, Ying Zhang, Yingfang Wu, Minhai Nie, Xin Jin, Xiufeng Wei, Yongzhan Nie, Changqing Yuan, Bin Cheng
Abstract
Radiochemotherapy-induced oral mucositis (OM) is a common oral complication in patients with tumors following head and neck radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Erosion and ulcers are the main features of OM that seriously affect the quality of life of patients and even the progress of tumor treatment. To date, differences in clinical prevention and treatment plans for OM have been noted among doctors of various specialties, which has increased the uncertainty of treatment effects. On the basis of current research evidence, this expert consensus outlines risk factors, clinical manifestations, clinical grading, ancillary examinations, diagnostic basis, prevention and treatment strategies and efficacy indicators for OM. In addition to strategies such as basic oral care, anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents, anti-infective agents, pro-healing agents, and photobiotherapy recommended in previous guidelines, we also emphasize the role of traditional Chinese medicine in OM prevention and treatment. This expert consensus aims to provide references and guidance for dental physicians and oncologists in formulating strategies for OM prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, standardizing clinical practice, reducing OM occurrence, promoting healing, and improving the quality of life of patients.