Year: 2025 | Month: April | Volume: 15 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 65-72
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20250410
Current Concepts on the Pathogenesis and Management of Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis: A Literature Review
Jayanta Chattopadhyay1, Subhalakshmi Sen2, Rakshith Shetty3
1,2,3Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and Microbiology, Kusum Devi Sunderlal Dugar Jain Dental College & Hospital. Kolkata, India
Corresponding Author: Dr. Subhalakshmi Sen
ABSTRACT
Radiation-induced mucositis (RIM) is a significant complication of cancer treatment, particularly for patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. Radiation-induced oral mucositis (RIOM) causes severe pain, difficulty in swallowing, and may lead to dose reduction or treatment delays, adversely impacting patient outcomes. This review compiles current literature on the pathophysiology, prevention, and management of RIOM, with a focus on pharmacologic, non-pharmacologic, and emerging therapeutic interventions. Understanding these concepts is essential for advancing care strategies and improving patient quality of life during treatment.
Key words: Radiation induced mucositis, RIOM, complications of radiation, head and neck cancer