Scope and epidemiology of cancer therapy-induced oral and gastrointestinal mucositis.

摘要

OBJECTIVE: To discuss the scope and epidemiology of cancer therapy-induced mucositis. DATA SOURCE: Peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. CONCLUSION: Mucositis is a frequent and costly complication of cancer treatment. The risk of cancer therapy-induced mucositis varies depending on a number of patient- and treatment-related factors. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: An awareness of the risk factors associated with mucositis will allow nurses to identify cancer patients at greatest risk and incorporate supportive care measures into their management plans.