Note:"* Ratings pending – login to http://plus.mcmaster.ca/evidenceupdates in a few days if interested."
Abstract
Background
Treatment of cancer is increasingly effective but associated with short and long term side effects. Oral side effects, including
oral mucositis (mouth ulceration), remain a major source of illness despite the use of a variety of agents to treat them.
Objectives
To
assess the effectiveness of interventions for treating oral mucositis
or its associated pain in patients with cancer receiving
chemotherapy or radiotherapy or both.Plain language summary:
Interventions for treating oral mucositis for patients with cancer receiving treatment
Using a low level laser may reduce the severity of ulcers caused by cancer treatment.
Treatments for cancer can cause severe ulcers (sores) in the mouth. These can be painful and slow to heal. The review found weak and unreliable evidence that using a laser may relieve or cure the ulcers. Morphine can control the pain. Although using morphine automatically on a constant drip, or self controlled use, provide similar relief, people use less morphine when they are controlling it themselves.
