Abstract
Objective:
To discuss the scope and epidemiology of cancer therapy-induced mucositis.
Data source:
Peer-reviewed articles and book chapters.
Conclusion:
Mucositis is a frequent and costly complication of cancer treatment. The risk of cancer therapy-induced mucositis varies depending on a number of patient- and treatment-related factors.
Implications for nursing practice:
An awareness of the risk factors associated with mucositis will allow nurses to identify cancer patients at greatest risk and incorporate supportive care measures into their management plans.
MeSH terms
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Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
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Cost of Illness
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Gastrointestinal Diseases / economics
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Gastrointestinal Diseases / epidemiology*
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Gastrointestinal Diseases / etiology
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Gastrointestinal Diseases / nursing
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Health Care Costs / statistics & numerical data
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Health Resources / economics
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Health Resources / statistics & numerical data
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Humans
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Incidence
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Mouth Mucosa
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Neoplasms* / complications
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Neoplasms* / therapy
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Nurse's Role
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Nursing Assessment
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Oncology Nursing / methods
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Oral Hygiene
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Patient Care Planning
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Quality of Life
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Radiotherapy / adverse effects
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Risk Factors
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Stomatitis / economics
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Stomatitis / epidemiology*
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Stomatitis / etiology
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Stomatitis / nursing