Chemotherapy-induced oral dysfunction: a literature review.

Oral mucositis is one of the most common symptomatic dose-limiting complications associated with chemotherapy. However, advice regarding the effectiveness of treatment is often conflicting and subjective. Oral dysfunction may affect the quality of life of patients diagnosed with cancer, resulting in taste aversions and associated impaired nutrition, infection, and most importantly treatment delay. This creates a challenge for healthcare professionals to develop clear, research-based mouth-care protocols, with enhanced education and recommendations for both healthcare staff and patients. This article provides an overview of the common oral complications that are often associated with chemotherapy for cancer, supporting healthcare professionals in making prompt and appropriate diagnoses, and identifying the most effective management strategies.