Oral Complications from Oropharyngeal Cancer Therapy

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Although oropharyngeal cancers are increasing in incidence, more patients are surviving their cancer therapy. Once a patient has completed their oropharyngeal cancer treatment, they need to contend with the multiple side effects related to their cancer treatment. These factors may be acute or chronic and vary from individual to individual, depending on the cancer stage, location, and treatment modalities employed. These treatment-related side effects have an impact on their overall survival and quality of life domains such as function, taste, speech, dry mouth, dental decay, oral infection, bone necrosis, and nutrition. This review will summarize the most common oral complications from oropharyngeal cancer therapy, their causes, ways to help reduce the occurrences, and guidelines related to monitoring and treatment of the conditions. ABSTRACT: Post-oropharyngeal cancer treatment complications include a multitude of oral side effects that impact overall survival and quality of life. These include acute and chronic conditions affecting the oral cavity and head and neck, such as mucositis, infection, xerostomia, dysgeusia, radiation caries, osteonecrosis, and trismus. This review will summarize the most common oral complications from oropharyngeal cancer therapy. The authors would like to point out that the literature cited frequently combines oropharyngeal and head and neck cancer results. If recommendations are made strictly related to oropharyngeal cancers, this will be highlighted.