Why Use the Oral Assessment Guide to Assess the Oral Cavity in Children Undergoing Antineoplastic Treatment?

Fabio Gomes dos Santos; Paula Maria Maracajá Bezerra; Claudio Rodrigues Leles; Mariana Leonel Martins; Paulo Rogério Ferreti Bonan; Isabella Lima Arrais Ribeiro; Simone Alves Sousa; Ana Maria Gondim Valença

Authors

Fabio Gomes dos Santos
Paula Maria Maracajá Bezerra
Claudio Rodrigues Leles
Mariana Leonel Martins
Paulo Rogério Ferreti Bonan
Isabella Lima Arrais Ribeiro
Simone Alves Sousa
Ana Maria Gondim Valença

Keywords:

Mouth Neoplasms;, Diagnosis, Oral, Pathology, Oral

Abstract

Oral mucositis is the most common adverse effect of cancer treatment and, histologically, consists of direct or indirect damages in the epithelium of the oral mucosa (especially the non-keratinized) and submucosal. Clinically, it manifests as atrophy, swelling, erythema, and ulceration of oral tissue. The appearance of these lesions in the patient generates discomfort/pain, affecting the ability to speak, swallow, and eat. Remarkably, SOM can be observed in the first week of chemotherapy. In addition, patients with OM require medications to control pain and infections, prolonged hospital stays, nutritional support, and the treatment may be interrupted or modified. Moreover, the mucositis experiences of children and young people with cancer and their parents revealed significant functional, psychological and social defiance. Therefore, this condition is as a challenge to pediatric oncologists and pediatric dentists.

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