What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review to assess the literature on management strategies and economic impact of salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia induced by cancer therapies.
What They Found
The review included 72 interventional studies and 49 intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) studies. They found evidence that salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia can be prevented or symptoms minimized to some degree, with management recommendations provided for IMRT, amifostine, muscarinic agonist stimulation, oral mucosal lubricants, acupuncture, and submandibular gland transfer.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients undergoing cancer therapies who experience dry mouth or reduced saliva production may benefit from various management strategies to prevent or reduce these symptoms. These strategies could improve their quality of life during and after treatment.
Canadian Relevance
This systematic review does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
A limitation identified was sparse literature regarding the effects of gustatory and masticatory stimulation on these conditions.