[Management of Stomatitis Associated with Treatment with Everolimus]

Stomatitis is a characteristic adverse event of everolimus and other mTOR inhibitors, and occurs at a high incidence and impairs QOL owing to pain. Most cases of stomatitis are mild to moderate. However, when stomatitis becomes serious, it can interfere with the continuation of medication. Therefore, it is important to place more emphasis on the prevention as well as early detection and treatment. In addition, patient education is also important. The possible occurrence of stomatitis, its signs and symptoms, as well as the importance of oral care need to be thoroughly explained prior to starting treatment. In order to smoothly carry out these measures, it will also be essential that cancer-treating physicians coordinate and collaborate with dentists, nurses, and pharmacists. It is desirable to establish appropriate prevention and management methods on the basis of the results of the Phase III prospective study, Oral Care-BC, currently ongoing in Japan.