Stomatitis from chemotherapy is primarily a problem related to which tissue?

Stomatitis from chemotherapy is primarily a problem related to which tissue?

• A. Mucous membranes
• B. Liver
• C. Spleen
• D. Bone marrow

Answer: (A)

Chemotherapy most strongly injures tissues that renew rapidly, and the oral mucosa is a prime example. The mucous membranes lining the mouth are composed of stratified squamous epithelium that turns over quickly, so cytotoxic agents disrupt these basal cells, leading to inflammation, painful ulcers, and sensitivity — classic stomatitis. This mucosal toxicity occurs even while other organs like the liver or spleen are less involved in this specific problem, and although bone marrow suppression is a major chemo effect, stomatitis specifically reflects injury to the mouth’s mucous membranes.

Chemotherapy most strongly injures tissues that renew rapidly, and the oral mucosa is a prime example. The mucous membranes lining the mouth are composed of stratified squamous epithelium that turns over quickly, so cytotoxic agents disrupt these basal cells, leading to inflammation, painful ulcers, and sensitivity — classic stomatitis. This mucosal toxicity occurs even while other organs like the liver or spleen are less involved in this specific problem, and although bone marrow suppression is a major chemo effect, stomatitis specifically reflects injury to the mouth’s mucous membranes.