H&N Treatment Side Effects Flashcards
What is mucositis/stomatitis?
Inflammation of the oral mucous membranes with edema and tenderness (30 Gy).
What is xerostomia?
Dry mouth that may be seen after 10 to 20 Gy and may be permanent after 40 Gy.
Poses risk for dental caries and oral infections.
What is a potential side effect of treating the lens?
Cataract formation can occur with doses as low as 10 Gy.
What happens to the lacrimal glands with high doses?
Dry painful eye, with severe dry eye syndrome reported in 100% of patients receiving more than 57 Gy.
What are taste changes?
Taste buds are radiosensitive, leading to atrophy and degeneration noted at 10 Gy.
What are skin reactions in head and neck treatment?
Usually acute and depend upon dose, energy of beam, and use of radiosensitizing chemotherapy drugs.
