Consecuencias en cavidad bucal producto de la radioterapia en el cáncer de cabeza y cuello. Revisión bibliográfica

Abstract

Radiotherapy is one of the primary treatments for head and neck cancer, but it results in various complications within the oral cavity. This article aims to describe the oral cavity consequences that occur in the oral cavity when a patient undergoes radiotherapy in a specific head or neck region. The research was conducted as a literature review using scientific databases Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. Results indicate that the predominant complications caused by radiotherapy are mucositis, xerostomia, osteoradionecrosis, radiation-induced dental caries, and taste alterations. These issues are intrinsically related to the administered radiation dose and the specific anatomical region irradiated, negatively impacting patients’ quality of life. Preventive interventions, including fluoride application and laser therapy, are essential to mitigate these adverse effects. The study concluded that radiotherapy in individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancer produces significant adverse effects in the oral cavity. Therefore, preventive and therapeutic dental treatment are vital for alleviating complications and improving quality of life, making a multidisciplinary approach necessary for effectively managing these sequelae.

Keywords: consequences, complications, oral cavity, radiotherapy, head and neck cancer