Management of the Oral Complications Associated with Cancer Therapy (4th Edition)

Course overview

Therapy to manage a patient with cancer is multidisciplinary and many times requires careful management of oral sequelae. Oral management of the patient with cancer can be divided into 3 stages: 1) oral assessment and therapy prior to initiation of cancer therapy, 2) oral supportive care during cancer therapy, and 3) oral care following completion of cancer therapy. This Quality Resource Guide (QRG) reviews the commonly encountered adverse effects associated with cancer therapy and the three stages of oral care and support for patients with cancer. The author carefully outlines management guidelines and adjunctive considerations that may be used by the oral health care provider to manage the oral cavity before, during and after cancer therapy. A variety of quick-reference tables will assist the dental clinician to review clinical protocols and agents that may be helpful for his/her patients. This QRG will serve as an important resource for the dentist who encounters a patient with cancer and will allow them to function as an important member of the therapy team.