Oral and dental management of people with myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia: A systematic search and evidence-based clinical guidance

Abstract

Aims: To systematically search all studies that discussed dental procedures in patients diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and/or acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and to provide an evidence-based clinical guidance on oral and dental management of people with MDS and/or AML. Methods: The systematic search followed the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guideline. Two databases systems were used (MEDLINE and EMBASE). PROSPERO was searched for ongoing or recently completed systematic reviews. The International Clinical Trials Registry Platform Search was searched for ongoing or recently completed trials. Level of evidence was evaluated based on the Oxford Level of Evidence. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to summarize the evidence. Results: Only 18 articles were selected and included in data synthesis and analysis. The level of evidence and recommendation ranged from 1 to 5 and A to D, respectively. Conclusions: All the included studies in the data synthesis (n = 18) showed no specific guidelines were followed; however, all reflected the importance of liaison with the patient's hematoncologist at all stages of MDS and/or AML therapy. Recommendations: Oral and dental assessment is crucial prior to MDS therapy to help reduce anticipated complications. Dental treatment prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and/or active stage of MDS therapy is tricky and always required liaison with the hematoncologist. MDS can progress to AML; hence, dental care providers are in a good position to spot any changes and refer early to the hematoncologist for further assessment.