Evaluation of oral mucositis severity and management in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy: A prospective study

Oral mucositis is a frequent and debilitating side effect in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancers, often leading to pain, nutritional compromise and treatment interruptions. A prospective observational research was conducted on 60 patients undergoing radiotherapy, with or without chemotherapy. 46.7% of patients developed Grade 3–4 mucositis. Severe mucositis was significantly associated with low BMI (p = 0.031), hemoglobin <11 g/dL (p = 0.007), tumor site (p = 0.016) and concurrent chemoradiotherapy (p = 0.001). Mucositis severity is influenced by nutritional and treatment-related factors. Early identification and targeted supportive interventions can improve clinical outcomes and reduce treatment disruptions.