Oral pathologies in anticancer therapy: a literature review

Anticancer therapy is associated with a wide range of systemic symptoms, including oral pathologies, such as dry mouth, mucositis, masticatory spasm, osteoradionecrosis, dental caries, opportunistic infections, dysphagia, hypogeusia, dysgeusia, and hyposalivation. Dental professionals are the most qualified experts in the diagnosis and treatment of oral pathologies, as well as their prevention and control in cancer patients receiving radiation therapy or chemotherapy. The aim of the review was to assess domestic and international literature on primary oral complications associated with anticancer therapy. The review also aimed to highlight the importance of dental care in improving the quality of life of these patients, as well as to provide practical guidelines for managing these complications. The search was performed using electronic databases PubMed, eLIBRARY.RU, and Google Scholar. The search yielded 55 literature sources, which were included in the review.

Anticancer therapy may result in significant oral pathologies, including mucositis, infections, hyposalivation, changes in taste, and pain. These symptoms can affect various functions of the oral cavity and oropharynx, causing dry mouth and difficulties chewing and swallowing, which impairs nutrition. Moreover, they can affect speech, oral hygiene, denture treatment, and appearance, all of which can be detrimental to oral health, as well as social and emotional wellbeing. These side effects may also reduce compliance with anticancer therapy, affecting treatment outcomes, overall health, and therapy costs. When examining cancer patients, a dental professional must consider the prescribed therapy, as well as potential long-term complications similar to those in patients receiving bisphosphonates. As a result, a cancer patient will continue to receive the necessary treatment, and any new problems will be identified early.