Mucositis is the general term used to describe the painful inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract by the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy (Camp‐Sorrell [27]). The growth patterns, replacement and functions of mucous membranes are similar and as such any part of the gastrointestinal tract can be adversely affected by chemotherapy. There is rapid renewal of the epithelial cells in the gastrointestinal tract to enable replenishment of cells that are lost during the natural process of eating. Chemotherapy‐induced mucositis occurs when the mucosal cells are damaged and not able to repair quickly enough to replenish normal cell loss (Camp‐Sorrell [27]).

Chemotherapy‐induced oral complications can be acute or chronic and healing of the oral mucosa is a complex process (Wilkes [268]). Acute complications include mucosal inflammation and ulceration, infection and bleeding (Wilkes [268]). The risk of developing stomatitis is dependent upon the type of chemotherapy, dose and schedule (Wilkes [268]). The majority of patients will develop some degree of chemotherapy‐related stomatitis; risk factors include poor oral hygiene and dental health, poor nutrition, tobacco and alcohol use and acidic or spicy foods (Camp‐Sorrell [27]). Younger patients are thought to be more at more risk due to their increased epithelial mitotic rate (Camp‐Sorrell [27]).

A baseline oral cavity assessment should be performed before chemotherapy treatment begins and at each chemotherapy visit thereafter (Wilkes [268]). Patients should be given advice regarding oral hygiene and intervention strategies to help reduce or eliminate complications (Camp‐Sorrell [27]).