# Evaluation of oral mucositis severity and management in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy: A prospective study

## TL;DR

This study examines how severe mouth sores become in head and neck cancer patients during radiotherapy and finds factors that increase the risk.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific risk factors for severe mucositis in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

## Key findings

- 46.7% of patients developed Grade 3-4 mucositis.
- Low BMI, low hemoglobin, tumor site, and chemoradiotherapy are significantly associated with severe mucositis.
- Early identification and targeted interventions can reduce treatment disruptions.

## Abstract

Oral mucositis is a frequent and debilitating side effect in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancers, often
leading to pain, nutritional compromise and treatment interruptions. A prospective observational research was conducted on 60 patients
undergoing radiotherapy, with or without chemotherapy. 46.7% of patients developed Grade 3-4 mucositis. Severe mucositis was significantly
associated with low BMI (p = 0.031), hemoglobin <11 g/dL (p = 0.007), tumor site (p = 0.016) and concurrent chemoradiotherapy
(p = 0.001). Mucositis severity is influenced by nutritional and treatment-related factors. Early identification and targeted supportive
interventions can improve clinical outcomes and reduce treatment disruptions.