Chemotherapy-Induced Mucositis in Pediatric Oncology: Experience From 145 Cases at the Mohammed VI University Hospital, Oujda

Introduction Chemotherapy-induced mucositis is a common and debilitating complication in pediatric oncology patients, characterized by painful inflammation of the oral and gastrointestinal mucosal membranes. It commonly contributes to a decline in the quality of life, an elevated risk of infections, and prolonged durations of hospitalization. Management involves both preventive and therapeutic measures intended to reduce symptoms and prevent the onset of complications. This study aims to evaluate the clinical characteristics, associated risk factors, and the effectiveness of therapeutic strategies in managing chemotherapy-induced mucositis in children treated at the Pediatric Oncology Unit of Mohammed VI University Hospital in Oujda. Materials and methods This retrospective study was conducted over 14 months, from July 2022 to August 2023, at the Pediatric Oncology Unit of Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Mohammed VI, Oujda. One hundred and forty-five pediatric patients receiving chemotherapy were included in the study. Data were systematically collected and recorded in an Excel file to document relevant clinical, demographic, laboratory, and treatment information. Results The age of the patients ranged from three to 16 years, with a male predominance of 66% (96 cases). In 51% of the patients (74 cases), a history of oral mucositis episodes was reported. Common hematologic malignancies observed were leukemia (41.3%; 60 cases), followed by lymphoma (20.6%; 30 cases), neuroblastoma (13.7%; 20 cases), bone tumor (10.3%; 15 cases), retinoblastoma (7.6%; 11 cases) and other tumors (6.2%; 9 cases). Psychological distress, including anxiety, was present in 66% of patients. Almost all patients exhibited anorexia and refused to eat. The intensity of pain, evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), ranged from 4 to 9/10, necessitating opioid analgesia in certain cases. Laboratory findings revealed neutropenia in 80% (116 cases), lymphopenia in 33% (48 cases), and an elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) in 79% (114 cases) of the patients. The treatment approach involved the administration of topical antifungal agents and meticulous oral hygiene, which included the use of bicarbonate mouthwashes. In severe cases, intravenous antibiotic therapy was initiated along with multimodal analgesic management. Conclusion Oral mucositis is a frequent and severe side effect of chemotherapy, associated with considerable morbidity and a decline in quality of life, underscoring the importance of prompt diagnosis and intervention.