Dentistry consensus on HSCT - Part III: Special topics - Dentistry on HSCT

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Hematology
• Oral Medicine

Background:

• Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) survivors face long-term morbidities, with significant oral health implications.
• Oral health is intrinsically linked to overall health, impacting HSCT patient outcomes.
• Previous consensus parts addressed pre-HSCT oral health and in-patient care during HSCT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review specific post-HSCT dental care topics, including graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and pediatric considerations.
• To examine quality of life, pain management, cost-effectiveness, and remote care relevant to HSCT patients.
• To underscore the integral role of dental surgeons within the multidisciplinary HSCT team.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on post-HSCT oral care.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding GVHD, pediatric HSCT dental needs, and quality of life.
• Analysis of cost-effectiveness and remote care models for HSCT patients.

Main Results:

• Specific oral care protocols are essential for managing post-HSCT complications like GVHD.
• Addressing oral health significantly impacts the quality of life and reduces pain in HSCT survivors.
• Integrated dental care improves long-term outcomes and patient well-being.

Conclusions:

• Dental surgeons play a vital role in the comprehensive follow-up and treatment of HSCT patients.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration is key to optimizing oral health and overall patient care post-HSCT.
• Continued research and implementation of specialized dental care are crucial for HSCT survivors.