Psychosocial Issues
Oral complications of cancer, including oral mucositis,[1] are among the most devastating of both short- and
long-term problems encountered by people with cancer because they affect eating and communication, the
most basic of human activities. Patients with these problems can become withdrawn, socially
avoidant, and even clinically depressed as a result of the difficulties and
frustrations they encounter living with oral complications. When employing
psychotropic drug interventions in treatment of such patients, it is important
to choose them with an eye toward improving or at least not worsening their
oral complications. For example, in the treatment of depression in such
patients, highly anticholinergic drugs should be avoided in patients with
xerostomia and salivary problems. (Refer to the PDQ summaries on Anxiety Disorder and Depression for more information.)
Supportive care including education and symptom management are important for
patients experiencing oral complications related to cancer therapy. It is
important to closely monitor each patient’s level of distress, ability to cope,
and response to treatment. This approach provides a setting for the health
professional to demonstrate concern for the patient’s complications and to
educate the patient and family caregivers. Comprehensive supportive care from
staff and family can enhance the patient’s ability to cope with cancer and its
complications.
References
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Dodd MJ, Dibble S, Miaskowski C, et al.: A comparison of the affective state and quality of life of chemotherapy patients who do and do not develop chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis. J Pain Symptom Manage 21 (6): 498-505, 2001.
[PUBMED Abstract]
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