Dentomaxillofacial sequelae resulting from a chemoradiotherapy against rhabdomyosarcoma: 6-year follow-up

Abstract

Introduction: Rhabdomyosarcoma is an aggressive malignant soft tissue neoplasm of immature mesenchymal cells treated with surgery and chemoradiotherapy. The effects of chemoradiotherapy in head induce a series of sequelae on oral cavity and growth development. Objectives: Report the case of a child undergoing treatment for rhabdomyosarcoma whose effects on the dento-maxillofacial development were cared for in order to safe guard the patient’s quality of life. Case report: Describes a case of severe dento-maxillofacial defects resulting from chemoradiation therapy for embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma in a child aswell as the dental management performed. Clinically, the patient had gingivitis, severe mobility of permanent teeth, hyposalivation, mucositis and severe trismus. The radiologic exams showed interruption of root formation of all permanent teeth and over-retention of primary teeth. Cephalometric analyses revealedmandibular and maxillary hypoplasia. Results: Was made extraction of the overretained primary teeth associated with a prophylactic program and use of artificial saliva due to hyposalivation in order to improve the quality of life of the patient. After 6 years of dental and phonoaudiologic follow-up her oral opening hasincreased and chewing and swallowing difficulties have decreased, there is no gingivitis or mucositis and she has remained free of recurrent or metastatic diseases 11 years after the initial diagnosis. Conclusion: Our report emphasizes the importance of dental treatment with a program of prevention and follow-upfor patients undergoing anticancer therapies.