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Xerostomia

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Pathobiology of Cancer Regimen-Related Toxicities

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Abstract

Xerostomia, the sensation of a dry mouth, most often results from a decreased secretion of the salivary glands (salivary hypofunction). Long-term, moderate to severe xerostomia has significant, negative effects on the quality of life of surviving cancer patients. In this chapter we focus on salivary hypofunction resulting from therapeutic radiation received by head and neck cancer patients. Specifically, we address the frequency of its occurrence, the mechanisms by which it likely occurs, as well as available and future approaches for prevention and treatment.

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Acknowledgement

The Division of Intramural Research of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has supported all of the authors’ research. We also thank Drs. John A. Chiorini and Deborah E. Citrin for their helpful comments on an earlier version of this chapter.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Molecular Physiology and Therapeutics Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, NIH, Building 10, Room 1A01, MSC-1190, Betehsda, MD, 20892-1190, USA

    Ana P. Cotrim D.D.S., Ph.D., Changyu Zheng M.D., Ph.D. & Bruce J. Baum D.M.D., Ph.D.

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  1. Ana P. Cotrim D.D.S., Ph.D.
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  2. Changyu Zheng M.D., Ph.D.
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  3. Bruce J. Baum D.M.D., Ph.D.
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Correspondence to Bruce J. Baum D.M.D., Ph.D. .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Francis Street 75, Boston, 01778, Massachusetts, USA

    Stephen T. Sonis

  2. Royal Adelaide Hospital, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, South Australia, Australia

    Dorothy M. Keefe

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Cotrim, A.P., Zheng, C., Baum, B.J. (2013). Xerostomia. In: Sonis, S., Keefe, D. (eds) Pathobiology of Cancer Regimen-Related Toxicities. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-5438-0_13

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