H&N Treatment Side Effects Flashcards
1
Q
What is mucositis/stomatitis?
A
Inflammation of the oral mucous membranes with edema and tenderness (30 Gy).
2
Q
What is xerostomia?
A
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.
3
Q
What is a potential side effect of treating the lens?
A
Cataract formation can occur with doses as low as 10 Gy.
4
Q
What happens to the lacrimal glands with high doses?
A
Dry painful eye, with severe dry eye syndrome reported in 100% of patients receiving more than 57 Gy.
5
Q
What are taste changes?
A
Taste buds are radiosensitive, leading to atrophy and degeneration noted at 10 Gy.
