Vincristine

Oral health effects

• Oral mucositis

  Painful, ulcerative inflammation of the oral mucosa that can limit nutrition and serve as a portal for infection.

  Mechanism: Direct cytotoxic injury to rapidly dividing mucosal epithelium.

  Clinical management: Pre-treatment dental clearance, basic oral care protocols, bland rinses, topical analgesia; oncology coordination. Cryotherapy helps with some bolus regimens.

• Neuropathic jaw/tooth pain

  Vinca alkaloids can cause a deep, neuropathic jaw or tooth pain in the absence of dental pathology.

  Clinical management: Recognize the pattern to avoid unnecessary dental treatment; coordinate with oncology.