Oral Health Characteristics 2 Years following Allogeneic Cell Transplant

Abstract

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is a treatment modality for cancers and hematopoietic disorders. The number of allo-HCT survivors is increasing in the United States. Allo-HCT is associated with oral health problems that can affect the quality of posttransplantation life. We characterize clinical and patient-reported oral health outcomes from the time of allo-HCT through 2 y following transplantation among a contemporary cohort of patients transplanted between 2019 and 2022. This prospective cohort study analyzed data from participants enrolled in a contemporary allo-HCT natural history study (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03602599). Clinical characteristics and patient-reported outcomes were captured at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 mo post-HCT. Descriptive and bivariable statistics were calculated. Sixty HCT participants were included in the final analysis. Differences were observed in oral pain, oral dryness, diet quality, difficulty swallowing, taste disturbances, and feelings of embarrassment from time of transplantation through the follow-up period. At 2 y, 47.5% of participants reported oral pain, and 44.1% reported xerostomia. Quality-of-life reductions related to taste, pain, and uncomfortable chewing were also observed after 2 y. Oral health problems and reductions in oral health–related quality of life were reported 2 y after allo-HCT. These findings support a tailored approach to oral health care among recipients of allo-HCT. Providing comprehensive and sustained oral health care for this patient population is essential.

Knowledge Transfer Statement

This study found time-specific changes in patient-reported symptoms, oral health status, and quality of life that persisted 2 y after allo-HCT. It also suggests that specific attention to long-term oral health care among this patient population remains warranted.