![]() ![]() ![]() 4 It appears that the prevalence of mucositis in pediatric patients is even greater than in adults this may be secondary to the more rapid cell division in this patient population. 3 Up to 99% of patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation with myeloablative regimens will experience mucositis. Furthermore, this group of patients is also more likely to have severe mucositis compared with patients suffering other malignancies. 2 Children with hematologic malignancies experience mucositis more frequently than those with solid tumors. Up to 80% of children undergoing chemotherapy will experience some degree of mucositis, although the incidence of oral mucositis differs according to the type of cancer and treatment regimen. This review will provide a comprehensive examination of available options for children who have oral mucositis. With achievements in other areas of supportive care in patients undergoing chemotherapy, oral mucositis should represent the forefront of new research. Palifermin, a keratinocyte growth factor, may be a future option after its use in children is explored. ![]() Current options include the use of antimicrobial mouthwashes, amino acid rinses, and topical healing agents. Few pharmacologic agents have been approved to either prevent the development or alleviate the symptoms of oral mucositis. A number of assessment scales have been developed to better qualify the symptoms associated with this condition. Oral mucositis also leads to an increased risk of infection and can often delay further chemotherapy treatment. Severity can range from mild, painless tissue changes to bleeding ulcerations that prevent oral intake and require narcotic pain relievers. Lesions develop as a result of chemotherapeutic agents attacking the rapidly dividing cells of the gastrointestinal tract. Oral mucositis affects more than three-fourths of patients undergoing chemotherapy and represents a significant burden to patients and caregivers. ![]()
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