[Oral graft-versus-host-disease: implications for dental professionals]

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a serious complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transpl antation, which frequently affects the mouth. GVHD is the result of an immunological attack of donor-derived cells against the tissue of patients. Chronic oral GVHD can affect the mucosa and/or damage salivary glands and can cause sclerotic changes to the head and neck area. Patients can experience painful oral and gingival mucosa, dry mouth, taste changes and limited mouth opening. Due to painful mucosa and salivary glands, and limited mouth opening, performing oral hygiene and dental interventions can be difficult. Immunosuppression in combination with altered salivary production increases the risk of secondary infectious complications, such as dental caries and candida infections. Dental professionals can play an important role in the prevention of oral complications.