Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.15644/asc59/4/6
Interventions to Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Induced Oral Mucositis: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Cristiana Palmela Pereira
orcid.org/0000-0002-9164-7189
; Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal
*
Inês Marques
orcid.org/0009-0002-8236-9380
; Master Student at the Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal
João Paulo Martins
; Polytechnic Institute of Porto, School of Health, Porto, Portugal
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Introduction: Oral mucositis is a common adverse effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, characterized by erythematous lesions, edema, ulceration, atrophy, or even hemorrhage. Current evidence highlights the complexity of its management and the importance of tailoring therapeutic approaches to the individual patient profile in order to improve quality of life during cancer treatment. Objectives: To access the efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy- and/or radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis. Materials and Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis of 27 articles published between 2019 and 2024 was also performed, aiming to characterize and contextualize therapeutic interventions for oral mucositis. Results and Discussion: This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that various nonpharmacological interventions (such as cryotherapy and photobiomodulation) and pharmacological
interventions, particularly natural agents (such as honey, curcumin, green tea), are effective for the
prevention and treatment of oral mucositis. Conclusion: Oral mucositis is a highly prevalent adverse effect in patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, with significant functional, nutritional, and treatment adherence implications. The systematic review with meta-analysis demonstrated the efficacy of non-pharmacological and natural interventions.
Keywords
Stomatitis; Drug Therapy; Honey; Curcuma; Herbal Teas; Pharmacologic Actions; Oral mucositis; Chemotherapy; Radiotherapy; Pharmacological treatment; Nonpharmacological interventions.
Hrčak ID:
341917
URI
Publication date:
26.12.2025.
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