Risk analysis, diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal mucositis in pediatric cancer patients

Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2015 Apr;94(1):87-97. doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2014.12.009. Epub 2014 Dec 19.

Abstract

Mucositis is a complex inflammatory reaction of the mucous membranes of the alimentary tract upon chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment in oncology patients. Mucositis can be subdivided in oral and gastrointestinal mucositis (GI mucositis). The damage to the gastrointestinal tract compromises the intestinal function and thereby the nutritional status and the quality of life, and eventually affects survival. The literature on GI mucositis focuses mainly on adults. This review focuses on data available on GI mucositis in pediatric cancer patients. An evaluation of the clinical presentation and consequences of GI mucositis in children is outlined. The review summarizes key issues for clinicians with respect to risk analysis for developing mucositis and the diagnosis of this condition in children. Information on these issues is obtained from clinical trials in children and adults, and from animal models. Diagnostic tools and assessment of severity of GI mucositis in children is elaborated on. Furthermore, the clinical management of the symptoms and consequences of GI mucositis in children, with specific focus on nutritional support, are discussed.

Keywords: Cancer; Children; Diagnosis; Gastrointestinal mucositis; Nutrition; Risk analysis.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Child
  • Disease Management
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Mucositis / diagnosis*
  • Mucositis / epidemiology
  • Mucositis / etiology*
  • Mucositis / therapy
  • Neoplasms / complications*
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Severity of Illness Index

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents