Paediatric patients receiving oncology therapy: review of the literature and oral management guidelines

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ABSTRACT

Aim

In recent years, neoplastic diseases in children have acquired growing importance in the field of paediatrics. This has
been accompanied by significant advances in the treatment of children's cancer, with long-term survival rates of 90 in the case
of some tumors, resulting in the need for more medical and health care on all levels. With these advances comes a new responsibility to
do everything possible to prevent complications stemming from neoplasia and its treatment. Among the side effects of cancer therapies
(mainly chemotherapy and radiation treatment) are chronic or acute oral manifestations that are frequent sources of discomfort, focal
points of systemic infections and other side effects, depending on the child's stage of development. In most cases, the incidence and
severity of oral complications are associated with preexisting factors (cavities, gum disease and poor hygiene) that clearly affect their
emergence, increase and persistence. The aim of this article is to propose a guideline for managing oral complications of paediatric
cancer treatments. CONCLUSIONS: It is fundamental for the patient and their parents to be aware of the possibility of preventing or
reducing problems in the oral cavity through preventive measures and simple oral treatment.

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