The mouth and palliative care

Oral complications are common among patients with advanced cancer, though relatively little research has been undertaken in this field. This review article discusses the common problem of xerostomia among the terminally ill, together with an overview of oral candidosis, oral viral infections, chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-associated mucositis, and alterations in taste sensation among those with advanced cancer. Suggested management regimes, based on the limited clinical trial data available, are provided where appropriate.