One of the most common problems that arises in patients with cancer is that of mucositis. An estimated 15%-40% patients receiving standard chemotherapy or radiation therapy will experience mucositis as well as 70%-90% of patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation and 80% patients receiving radiation for head and neck cancer. Mucositis develops over a period of time, with the patient experiencing a range of symptoms from mild discomfort to an inability to swallow. Oral mucositis leads to several problems, including pain, nutritional problems as a result of inability to eat, and increased risk of infection due to open sores in the mucosa. Mucositis often becomes so severe that it interferes with a patient’s nutritional intake, causing the need for enteral or parenteral feedings. It has a significant effect on the patient’s quality of life and can be dose-limiting, requiring a reduction in subsequent chemotherapy doses.

There are several commonly-used interventions for the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis. However, many of them are unfounded in the literature. Several studies have been completed regarding oral mucositis, which have served as a basis for recommendations on the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis. One common thread for most oral mucositis is pain. Adequate pain control is paramount in providing care for the patient with mucositis.

Common interventions will be discussed in light of the research surrounding these interventions. After completing this program, you will be able to intervene appropriately for the patient with mucositis to provide the most effective and evidence-based care. Providing this care will ultimately improve patient outcomes, including quality of life.

Identify the incidence and mechanisms of mucositis in patients with cancer.
Define assessment strategies for mucositis.
Select treatment options for the management of mucositis.
Integrate specific teaching points for patient education regarding mucositis.