Pathology · single question
Which of the following is the most common oral manifestation in patients undergoing chemotherapy?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Oral mucositis
Oral mucositis is the most common and dose-limiting oral complication of chemotherapy, affecting 40–80% of patients. Presents as painful erythema, ulceration, and mucosal sloughing.
- A. CORRECT. Oral mucositis = most common oral complication of chemotherapy. Dose-dependent, affects rapidly dividing mucosal cells.
- B. Osteonecrosis (MRONJ) is associated with bisphosphonates/antiangiogenics — not standard chemotherapy.
- C. Xerostomia is prominent with head/neck radiation but secondary to mucositis in frequency for chemotherapy.
- D. Candidiasis is frequent in immunocompromised chemo patients but is NOT the most common oral manifestation.