Published online May 20, 2015. doi: 10.5321/wjs.v4.i2.96
Peer-review started: October 10, 2014
First decision: December 3, 2014
Revised: December 17, 2014
Accepted: January 15, 2015
Article in press: January 19, 2015
Published online: May 20, 2015
Graft vs host disease (GVHD) is a complication of patients who are treated by hematopoietic cell transplantation. National Institutes of Health in 2005 by Working Group on Diagnosis and Staging Consensus Development Project on Criteria for Clinical Trials in Chronic GVHD (cGVHD) established 2 principal categories of oral GVHD, acute and chronic. The oral mucosa may be the first site of manifestation of the disease. Clinical diagnosis needs to be confirmed by a biopsy of oral mucosa and minor salivary glands. Microscopic results have played a major role in the diagnosis and management of acute and chronic oral GVHD. Development of second malignancies is the greatest risk of oral cGVHD patients, mostly regarding squamous cell carcinoma. The focus of oral GVHD therapy is to improve symptoms and maintain oral function. The aim of this review article is to update the information on the oral GVHD in its clinical, microscopic features and their complications.
Core tip: Graft vs host disease (GVHD) patients are susceptible to recurrent and deadly infections due to immune system harm. Chemotherapy treatment may cause a range of complications, such as neuropathic pain resulting from vincristine adverse effects, overgrowth of gingival due to cyclosporine and effects on bones and teeth growth and development during childhood and youth. Oral GVHD patients must have follow-ups due to risks of oral infections, bleeding, and cancerous developments.