The Psychological Effect of Antimicrobial Resistance in Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC)

Background and Aim: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common form of head and neck cancer, and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has made its treatment increasingly challenging. AMR contributes to treatment failures, increased morbidity, and reduced survival rates among OSCC patients. Beyond these clinical impacts, this review aims to evaluate the psychological burdens associated with AMR in OSCC and to explore the effectiveness of mental health interventions tailored to these patients. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, APA PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. To ensure a thorough examination of the topic, the review focused on the intersection of AMR, OSCC, and mental health interventions, with studies published from March 2001 to August 2024 being considered. Results: A total of 62 studies were reviewed, revealing that AMR in OSCC significantly exacerbates psychological burdens such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Interventions like mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) were identified as effective in reducing psychological distress and improving quality of life. Conclusion: The results indicate that AMR significantly worsens the psychological well-being of OSCC patients. Healthcare providers and policymakers are recommended to integrate mental health support into standard cancer care, enhance training on the psychological impact of AMR, and address barriers to mental health services. Future research should focus on developing and evaluating innovative mental health interventions and strategies to mitigate the impact of AMR on OSCC patients.