Mucositis

Abstract

Toxicity to gastrointestinal mucous membranes is a frequent side effect of treatment for malignancy. Probably no other side effects so interfere with quality of life than mucositis and diarrhea. Both cause pain and hemorrhage and interfere with adequate hydration and nutrition. In addition, interruption of alimentary tract membranes may allow local invasion by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, singly or in combination. Some of these localized ulcerations may lead to systemic infections (bacteremia and fungemia). All such mucous membrane injuries require time to heal, during which intense supportive care must be given, frequently in the hospital, and at great expense.