Oral toxicities associated with immunotherapy and targeted therapy in cancer treatment

Abstract

In the context of cancer treatment, surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are among the main therapies used. However, emerging therapies are gaining prominence. The use of immunotherapy and targeted therapy, even though they are based on improving the immune system's response, are associated with the prevalence of certain toxicities, some of them in the oral cavity. The aim of this review was to describe the main oral toxicities associated with immunotherapy and targeted therapy. It was observed that there is a prevalence of xerostomia, dysgeusia, lichenoid reactions, stomatitis, among others, which have a direct impact on patients' quality of life. Although these oral manifestations present a low risk of mortality, proper diagnosis and treatment is essential in order to promote clinical comfort for the patient during the therapeutic period.