L26 Chemo and mucositis

Question 1

3 targets of chemo

Answer 1

rapid proliferation
altered metabolism
resistance to apoptosis

Question 2

Functions of oral mucosa

Answer 2

protection (of deep tissues from mechanical forces and microbes)
sensation (receptors, taste buds, reflexes)
secretion (lubrication, taste, anti-microbial)

Question 3

Types of oral mucosa

Answer 3

masticatory: 25%, keratinized
lining mucosa: 60%, non keratinized, movement
specialized mucosa: 15%, dorsum of tongue, taste buds, keratin expression, papillae

Question 4

Which type of oral mucosa is most at risk of mucositis

Answer 4

lining mucosa, non keratinized and injured often

Question 5

Pathogenesis of mucositis

Answer 5

1. initiation
2. upregulation and message generation
3. signaling and amplification
4. ulceration
5. healing

Question 6

Implications of Grade 3 and 4 mucositis

Answer 6

3 = liquid diet only
4 = fed through tube

Question 7

5-Flurouracil

Answer 7

antimetabolite
used in wide range of solid tumours
usually associated with high risk of severe mucositis

30 mins oral cryotherapy recommended to constrict blood vessels in mouth