Drug-Induced Oropharyngeal and Esophageal Mucositis in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report and Patient’s Perspective

Background: In elderly patients, multi-morbidity with associated polypharmacy often led to incidences of adverse drug reactions. The liver plays a vital role in eliminating toxic effects of the drugs but chronic toxicity sometimes causes the hepatic and gastrointestinal disorder. Objective: To prevent adverse drug reactions in multimorbid older patients by managing their chronic systemic diseases and to improve their quality of life. Case presentation: An otherwise healthy-looking elderly person (70) presented to the OPD with chief complaints of mouth burning, throat irritation, mild odynophagia and nausea. The patient had a long history of systemic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and CAD status post-PTCA, as well as prostatomegaly, leading to prolonged polypharmacy. Clinical findings: On physical examination and laboratory investigation, oropharyngeal and esophageal mucositis with hepatic impairment were confirmed. Appropriate treatment and medication management resolved the oropharyngeal, esophagial, and hepatic issues within a two-month follow-up period. A guide line on medication intake and lifestyle changes was issued to reduce to medication-related harm. Conclusion: In this case study it is reasonable to note that the patient’s oropharyngeal and esophageal mucositis was drug-induced. The drug- induced harm needs prompt attention in elderly multimorbid patient.