Infection in the patient receiving chemotherapy for cancer: oral considerations

Because of the various factors associated with the disease process and its treatment, the patient receiving chemotherapy for cancer is highly susceptible to infection, and infection accounts for approximately 70% of patient fatalities. When potential sources of infection are considered in the patient receiving chemotherapy for cancer, the mouth provides ideal conditions for microbial growth, particularly in the debilitated patient, and is a portal of entry for contamination of the lungs, the digestive tract, and the circulatory system. These patients are more susceptible to oral infection because of alteration of oral flora toward greater pathogenicity and impairment of host-defense mechanisms. Oral/dental management of the patient receiving chemotherapy for cancer will enhance the general health and comfort of the patient and will prevent or reduce oral complications including mucositis and local and systemic infection.