MANIFETAÇÕES BUCAIS EM PACIENTES SUBMETIDOS A QUIMIOTERAPIA

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Malignant neoplasms represent one of the leading causes of mortality
worldwide. Chemotherapy treatment, although effective, can cause changes in the oral cavity
due to drug-induced immunosuppression, resulting in systemic complications, longer hospital stays, increased costs, and impaired quality of life.OBJECTIVES: To identify the main oral manifestations in patients undergoing chemotherapy, understanding their pathophysiological mechanisms and repercussions on the oral cavity.METHODOLOGY: An integrative literature review was conducted, focusing on oral manifestations in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Searches were conducted in Google Scholar using the descriptors "Oncology patients," "Chemotherapy," and
"Oral manifestations." Articles published between 2021 and 2025, in Portuguese and English, were included. DISCUSSION: Cancer patients frequently receive chemotherapy and radiation therapy, therapies that, in addition to acting on tumor cells, also affect healthy cells, causing acute or late oral complications. The most common alterations include mucositis, xerostomia, radiation caries, and trismus, varying according to the type of therapy, systemic conditions, and tumor characteristics. CONCLUSION: Early recognition of oral manifestations is essential for proper diagnosis and management, allowing for the control of infectious foci. The role of the dentist in the multidisciplinary team is essential for reducing complications and improving the quality of life of cancer patients.