Cisplatin Induced Oral Mucositis - A Case Report

Oral mucositis (OM) is a serious side effect that often occurs in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment. The oral mucosa may develop red, painful, and ulcerative lesions, which can stop cancer therapy and greatly reduce the quality of life for patients. This study aims to emphasize the etiology, clinical presentation, and management strategies for chemotherapy-induced OM, illustrated through a case involving a 60-year-old male patient diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. The patient was receiving the CAP chemotherapy protocol, which includes cisplatin, doxorubicin, and 5-fluorouracil. After the third chemotherapy cycle, the patient developed Grade 3 OM, characterized by a swollen, erythematous patch localized to the tonsillar fossa, associated with severe pain and difficulty in swallowing. Management involved the administration of intravenous granisetron, dexamethasone, and pantoprazole, along with appropriate supportive care to prevent further complications and improve patient comfort. Nutritional support and oral hygiene measures were also incorporated into the care plan. In order to decrease patient morbidity and prevent treatment delays, the example emphasizes the need of early detection and prompt action in OM management. Effective management requires a combination of symptom relief, inflammation control, and, when necessary, chemotherapy dose adjustments. Prompt and multidisciplinary supportive care can enhance patient tolerance to ongoing cancer therapy, minimize hospitalizations, and improve overall outcomes. Recognizing OM as a potentially dose-limiting toxicity underlines the need for vigilant monitoring in patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy regimens.