Oral Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Immunology
• Oral Medicine

Background:

• Chronic oral graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a frequent complication following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT).
• It is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in long-term alloHCT survivors.
• Oral cGVHD presents with diverse symptoms, mimicking autoimmune conditions like lichen planus and Sjögren syndrome.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated literature review on the diagnosis and management of oral cGVHD.
• To assist dental and medical clinicians in optimizing oral cGVHD therapy.
• To minimize potential adverse effects associated with oral cGVHD treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of diagnostic and management strategies for oral cGVHD.
• Analysis of potential sequelae and treatment-related risks.
• Synthesis of current knowledge for clinical application.

Main Results:

• Oral cGVHD can lead to mucosal inflammation, salivary dysfunction, and limited oral opening.
• Potential sequelae include pain, nutritional compromise, and fibrosis.
• Management may involve topical therapies or systemic immunosuppression/corticosteroids with associated risks.

Conclusions:

• Effective diagnosis and management of oral cGVHD are crucial for alloHCT survivors.
• Multidisciplinary care is essential to balance treatment efficacy and adverse effects.
• Further research is needed to refine therapeutic approaches for oral cGVHD.