FACTORS INFLUENCING THE SEVERITY OF ACUTE MUCOSAL TOXICITY INDUCED BY CHEMORADIOTHERAPY IN NON METASTATIC NASOPHARYNGEAL CANCER

Background: Chemoradio therapy is the cornerstone of treatment for non metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma but often induces acute oral mucositis, which can compromise treatment tolerance.

Methods: A retrospective cohort of 138 patients with non metastatic nasopharyngeal cancer was analysed. Data were extracted using an anonymous standardised form and processed in Microsoft Excel. Statistical analyses (SPSS 22.0, chi square) assessed associations between patient characteristics and the severity of oral radiomucositis.

Conclusion: Advanced age, current smoking and higher tumour stage are key determinants of severe oral mucosal toxicity in patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy for nasopharyngeal cancer. Vigilant management of these factors, including smoking cessation and close supportive care, is essential to prevent treatment interruptions and improve outcomes.