Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) recipients are highly susceptible to various infections due to the myelosuppression caused by conditioning chemoradiotherapy and the use of immunosuppressants. The oral cavity contains a diverse array and substantial number of bacteria, which can lead to infections when oral mucotitis occurs. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate potential oral infections and improve oral hygiene before transplantation. In our hospital, we perform oral cleansing and remove sources of oral infection for patients scheduled to undergo allo-HCT. Furthermore, during the transplantation process, an oral care support team consisting of dentists and dental hygienists provides oral care support in collaboration with hematologists and nurses. In this context, we have considered the potential impact of the oral environment on transplant outcomes, including oral adverse events, and have particularly focused on the oral microbiota in our ongoing clinical research. In this report, we outline our hospital’s oral management strategies for allo-HCT recipients and present findings from our clinical research on the relationship between the oral microbiota, systemic conditions, and oral adverse events in allo-HCT recipients.
