Causes of OM
Oral mucositis (OM) occurs when the linings of the mouth and throat are damaged
due to chemotherapy or radiation therapy.1 When
OM results from chemotherapy, it typically occurs intensely over a short time.
When OM results from radiation therapy, it typically occurs less intensely
for a longer time.2
In recent years research has shown that OM’s development is complex.3 The
damage that causes the mouth and throat linings to develop sores begins in
the deeper tissues; that is, the sores develop from the inside out.2,3 The
process of OM begins immediately upon receiving therapy. Unfortunately, however,
it is not possible to know right away whether OM will develop after treatment.
Even if the interior of the mouth appears normal and healthy, OM still may
develop.1,2
Once OM has developed and produced sores, it is especially important to
continue good oral hygiene to help reduce the risk of infection that can further
complicate your treatment and slow the healing of your OM.4
The tissues of your mouth are especially resilient, and they will heal from
OM after your therapy has completed. Developing OM, however, can put you at
an increased risk of developing it with future treatments, which is why all
efforts to prevent it through effective oral hygiene are critical.3 Visit
the Preventing Oral Mucositis section
of this site to learn more.
References
- Sonis, ST. The pathobiology of mucositis. Nat Rev Cancer 2004;
4(4):277-84.
- Sonis, ST, A biological approach to mucositis. J Support Oncol 2004;
2(1): 21-32.
- Sonis, ST, et al., Perspectives on cancer therapy-induced mucosal injury:
pathogenesis, measurement, epidemiology, and consequences for patients. Cancer 2004;
100(9 Suppl):1995-2025.
- Rubenstein, EB, et al., Clinical practice guidelines for the prevention
and treatment of cancer therapy-induced oral and gastrointestinal mucositis. Cancer 2004;
100(9 Suppl): 2026-46.
